Fresh off the back of his Outstanding Contribution win at AHEAD Asia, the founder of Banyan Group reflects on three decades of pioneering hospitality.
25 Years of Oppenheim Architecture 047
Upon celebrating a milestone anniversary, Chad Oppenheim discusses the past, present and future of hospitality design.
Meeting... Gareth Banner 052
Having overseen the launch of its latest venture in Washington DC, the Group Managing Director of The Ned discusses design DNA, evolution and future developments.
Lasting Legacy
129
Design consultancy Greenspace delves into the archives, looking to stories of the past to build a brand identity befitting of a London landmark.
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WELCOME
That Special Something
What makes an award-winning hotel? It’s a question we’re often asked throughout the entry process for AHEAD, particularly from the creatives who are eager to get their hands on a coveted trophy and be in with a chance of being named best new hotel in the world.
By name, the scheme is billed as the Awards for Hospitality Experience and Design, having evolved from a focus on architecture and interiors to now encompass the role they play in shaping the overall guest experience. This could be the sense of place that comes from the style and composition of the building, or perhaps it’s the stories told through the materials that are handcrafted by local artisans. Such aspects are crucial to catch the eye of AHEAD’s judging panel, but typically, it’s that special something that captures their hearts.
During the course of the 2024 awards programme, there were countless juxtapositions at play. Branded versus independent. Global versus local. Newcomer versus veteran. Big budget versus cost-effective. The list goes on… There was much debate amongst judges as to which hotels should ultimately be crowned winners, yet in so many of these Davidand-Goliath-like battles, it wasn’t necessarily the biggest or strongest that came out on top.
For the industry specialists serving on the AHEAD panel, there are guidelines and criteria by which to judge, but there are no hard-and-fast rules as to what makes a hotel special. As a result, the lengthy discussions that took place at the behind-closed-doors judging sessions in all four regions were insightful to say the least, often throwing up more questions than they did answers. What is the definition of a resort? Is guest experience more important than interior design? How can you compare a marble-clad palace to a raw and rustic retreat? Yet in the end, a winner emerges.
In truth, there’s no right or wrong, and that’s the beauty of AHEAD. A 10-key tented camp in the wild can, and does, compete with a mixed-use development in a cosmopolitan capital city. After fierce debate over architecture and spaceplanning, interior design and FF&E, budget and commercial viability, it’s often that special something that is the deciding factor – an intangible quality that can’t typically be designed on demand or manufactured.
For me – a career-long hospitality commentator with almost two decades in the role – there are only a handful of hotels that I can truly say had that special something. It’s difficult to pinpoint exactly what it was that made them so memorable that even long after check-out, they still have the power to evoke an emotional reaction.
So for those who are looking to enter a new hotel opening for this year’s AHEAD programme, tell us the stories behind the architecture and interior design scheme, but also show us how they contribute to the locale or the guest experience –what distinguishes them from the competition?
Given the sheer variety of entries and wide-ranging expertise of the judging panel, it’s impossible to predict which way the vote might go, which is why we encourage hotels of all shapes and scales to put themselves forward and be in with a chance of winning an accolade. And in answer to the question posed as to what makes an award-winning hotel... It’s just that special something.
The word uchronia refers to the reimagining of our world in an alternative dimension – an idealised existence that takes life in new directions. It is a concept that Julien Sebban embraced in the naming of his studio, and one that continues to inform his creation of ‘places of experience’. The multidisciplinary collective has developed a distinct signature style that aligns with the spirit of its name – most recently evident in a surrealist conceptual hotel developed for the latest edition of Maison & Objet.
083 Michael Fuerstman
“As hoteliers we have a responsibility to create authentic stays for guests, and here, it’s about experiencing the romantic ideal of an estate in the countryside,” says Michael Fuerstman as he reflects on the design brief for Pendry Natirar. In transforming the historic mansion into Pendry Hotels & Resorts’ first drive-to resort, the co-founder and Creative Director embraced existing elements as the foundation, before layering contemporary touches to bring the property to life.
116 Jeanne Gang
Whilst on a hiking trip in scenic Colorado, architect Jeanne Gang – founder of Studio Gang – was captivated by the eyelike knots that climb the trunks of the ubiquitous Aspen Tree. So when later approached by environmentalist developer Urban Villages to design a new hotel in Denver, she knew she wanted to incorporate this iconic motif into the façade. Named after the native tree, Populus is billed as the first carbon-positive hotel in the USA and stands proud as a test-case for all future hotels.
076 Charlie Whinney
Charlie Whinney is no stranger to the hotel sector, having introduced his signature steam-bent art to a host of new openings of late. His portfolio spans prestigious projects across London and beyond, including Mandarin Oriental Mayfair and, most recently, Park Hyatt London River Thames. For the brand’s debut in the capital, the artist created a striking installation named ‘Ebb & Flow’. Presiding over the lobby, the sinuous piece pays homage to the tidal movements of the River Thames, seting the tone for a ‘park by water’ experience.
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Having established their own atelier, the founders of Studio Sixty7 take a fantasy break to an Axel Vervoordt-designed resort in the Botswana wilderness.
Where are you?
We are overlooking the Okavango Delta in Botswana, with its breathtaking views and overflowing array of wildlife - no mosquitoes in sight, thankfully.
How did you get there?
Wrapped-up in cashmere throws, we take a dreamy hot-air balloon ride with a constant flow of Dom Pérignon. It’s sunset and we catch the golden hour glow.
Who is there to greet you on arrival?
Sir David Attenborough and Dame Joanna Lumley, who else? They have recently opened a safari retreat, where storytelling and nature go hand-in-hand with champagne, darling.
And who’s at the concierge desk?
An incredible lady called Dorothy Bahati, who we met on a recent trip to Sun Siyam Iru Fushi in the Maldives. She is a woman on a mission for change, full of smiles and laughter.
Who are you sharing your room with?
Other than each other, Jose has a soft spot for Timothée Chalamet, who happens to be filming a new movie in the Okavango Delta.
Is there anything you would like waiting for you in your room?
Air-conditioning is a must, along with a freshly poured Negroni and Margarita on the rocks.
Describe the hotel, your room and the view... The interiors embrace a soft, earthy palette, while smooth plaster and weathered woods are layered with linens and textiles handwoven in Africa. Every piece of furniture has been selected to tell a story, as well as give comfort. It is all about subtle elegance and embracing the Okavango Delta views from our perfectly sized balcony.
Who designed it?
Master of design, Axel Vervoordt, with his minimalist interiors and curated, locally sourced accessories and sculptures. It’s a feast for the eyes and a lesson in design.
What’s the restaurant and bar like?
It’s sunset and we can hear the lions roaring over the soft jazz playing in the background. The restaurant is a magical safari tent surrounded by lanterns and the African bush beyond. We sit on large cushions upholstered in brightly coloured Kente print fabrics with the smell of the campfire and food drifting in.
Who are you dining with this evening?
Sir David Attenborough, who’s been telling us stories about his life in nature; Karl Lagerfeld talks all things fashion; Kelly Wearstler is on interiors; the Spice Girls on music; and Sofia Vergara is just being Sofia!
Who’s manning the stoves?
Adejoké Bakare, the first black woman in the UK to be awarded a Michelin star. Her take on modern African cuisine is like no other.
And what’s on the menu?
Everything from Bakare’s restaurant, Chishuru, in London.
Would you like something to drink with that?
Joanna Lumley keeps bringing over bottles of Dom Pérignon – we’re starting to think she’s back to playing Patsy from the iconic British sitcom Absolutely Fabulous!
What’s in the mini-bar for a night cap?
A classic Negroni - they know us so well.
What’s on your nightstand at bedtime?
A signed safari survival guide by Sir David comes in handy.
Would you like a newspaper or magazine in the morning?
A newspaper, accompanied by a freshly brewed coffee. Nothing beats the smell of strong coffee beans to start the day.
What toiletries would you like to freshen-up?
Treat us to La Mer skincare and spray us with Byredo’s Bal D’Afrique fragrance, and we’ll be all yours.
Early morning alarm call or late check-out?
Late check-out - the roaring lions are our early morning alarm clock.
DRAWING BOARD
Therme
DUBAI
Therme Group has unveiled plans for a new resort in Dubai’s Zabeel Park, slated for completion by 2028. Named Therme Dubai – Islands In The Sky, the resort has been designed by architects Diller Scofidio + Renfro (DS+R) to combine city living and the natural world, with features including botanical gardens, stacked terraces and cascading pools.
“Elevated high above the concerns of everyday urban life, Therme Dubai is an oasis in the sky,” says Elizabeth Diller, Founding Partner of DS+R. “It emerges from the lake of a revitalised Zabeel Park as a series of botanical islands stacked into a tower. Each island is a platform for thermal pools, decks and verdant indoor and outdoor vegetation; each offers a distinctive atmosphere, and each is oriented toward the dramatic view of the Dubai skyline. Guests are immersed in unique environments – the intense heat of saunas and steam rooms and the ambient temperature of thermal pools and cool mineral pools. DS+R is thrilled to take part in the convergence of Therme’s innovative approach to the tradition of public baths and Dubai’s legacy for landmark architecture.”
The resort will employ numerous practices to meet Therme Group’s sustainability targets – 90% of the water used in its thermal pools will be recycled, while 80% of the fresh air and cooling needs will be met through clean energy sources.
Dr Robert Hanea, founder and CEO of Therme Group, comments: “Dubai is a city that understands the future must be built with wellbeing at its core. This partnership brings together two forces driving that future: Dubai’s bold vision for urban planning and Therme Group’s commitment to redefining urban wellbeing through innovation. We are shaping how cities can integrate nature, water and culture to elevate quality of life at scale.”
Wilderness Rwanda is preparing to expand its offer with the launch of Wilderness Magashi Peninsula in September 2025. The luxury safari lodge will be located within a private concession at Akagera National Park, Central Africa’s largest protected wetland and Rwanda’s only sanctuary for savannah species.
The creative vision of Luxury Frontiers, Artichoke and the Wilderness in-house design team, Wilderness Magashi Peninsula is an eight-bed camp made up of a four-bed villa and two twin rooms, located 200m apart to ensure privacy. Each accommodation unit comes with its own plunge pool and is raised off the ground to enhance views of the surroundings. The camp’s central public area meanwhile features dining and lounge spaces, as well as a swimming pool, gym and wellness facilities.
Designed with a minimal environmental footprint, the property will be powered entirely by solar energy. As part of the Magashi Peninsula
development, Wilderness Rwanda also works with the Akagera Management Company – a collaboration between the Rwanda Development Board and African Parks – to support essential conservation initiatives, including predator monitoring and educational programmes for the next generation of conservationists.
“In addition to our conservation and community initiatives, Magashi Peninsula also celebrates Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage,” says Manzi Kayihura, Executive Director of Wilderness Rwanda. “The interiors will reflect locally inspired design, and as with all our camps, every detail aligns with our purpose-driven ethos. Furthermore, the lodge’s construction and daily operations will engage team members from neighbouring communities, with a strong commitment to nurturing local talent and creating meaningful employment, building on our vision of fostering a sustainable tourism model that benefits the entire region.”
Foster + Partners has revealed a first look at its designs for a new hotel and residences in the southern Brazilian state of Santa Catarina.
Part of a development by Muze, Tempo Hotel & Residences centres around a rich landscaped garden comprising natural trails, pavilions, water features and pools, designed to act as a seamless extension of the beachfront.
A private drop-off area provides views of the greenery from the moment of arrival, with the entryway leading into the lobby and restaurant, which incorporates a sunken outdoor seating area that further enhances the connection to the natural landscape. Each suite comes with a private terrace oriented to offer direct views of the oceanfront, as well as sliding timber screens for added privacy and shade. Inside, a warm palette of concrete and timber features throughout, reflecting the hues of the surrounding environment.
The property’s undulating architecture has
been envisioned to maximise links with the outdoors, facilitating views of nearby mountains and beaches. Public spaces also lean into the location, with a rooftop infinity pool wrapping around the building to provide unobstructed 360-degree views.
“The Tempo Hotel & Residences capture the spirit of this vibrant coastal location,” comments David Summerfield, Head of Studio at Foster + Partners. “Nature is woven through every part of the development, which will take guests and residents on a truly spectacular journey from the beach to their private suites and whole-floor residences.”
Partner Juan Frigerio adds: “Every element of our scheme has been carefully designed to establish new connections with the spectacular surroundings, while providing the highest level of comfort and luxury. Tempo will be a new global destination that offers an entirely unique oceanfront experience.”
Epochal Hotels has unveiled plans to open a new eco-lodge on Australia’s Hook Island. Glenn Piper, the group’s CEO, acquired the leasehold in 2022 alongside a small group of investors, with the vision of restoring a location that had been left severely impacted by cyclones.
Slated for launch in 2027, the destination comprises 39 biophilic cabins nestled across forest and beachfront settings. Amenities will include a fine-dining restaurant and beach club, as well as an all-day dining restaurant, bar, outdoor firepit, swimming pool and lounging deck. Wellness facilities meanwhile take the form of a forest spa and eco pools.
Piper, in collaboration with Luxury Frontiers, has designed the resort to embody ‘barefoot luxury’. Architectural plans draw inspiration from nature, grounding the resort within its surroundings. “Our modular, prefabricated approach minimises environmental impact while allowing for architecture that is fluid and
responsive to the land,” comments Graeme Labe, Managing Partner and Chief Design Officer at Luxury Frontiers. Development will take a phased approach to minimise its footprint, with measures in place to prevent erosion, manage waste and reduce noise pollution. Across the site, extensive tree surveys are guiding the placement of buildings, again to preserve native plants and habitats.
As Labe explains, interiors are set to reflect Hook Island’s vibrant palette. “Upon arrival, guests first notice earthy tones of brown, green and ocean blue,” he says. “As they explore further, bursts of colour – drawn from the island’s birds, coral and marine life – begin to emerge, much like the Great Barrier Reef, whose brilliance is revealed through discovery. Each accommodation type carries a distinct identity, blending eclectic, playful design with a naturecentric foundation and evolving the story and purpose of each unit’s typology.”
Delano
MIAMI BEACH
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT
Developer: Cain International
Operator: Ennismore
Architecture and Interior Design: Elastic Architects, Ennismore in-house www.delanohotels.com
Ennismore and Cain International have offered a glimpse inside the new Delano Miami Beach, set to reopen its doors in late 2025 following complete renovation. The property has been redesigned by Elastic Architects in collaboration with Ennismore, with interiors paying homage to its Art Deco roots. Original vertical paint bands and terrazzo flooring are set to be reinstated, while the Delano logo and the lobby’s hexagonal columns are being restored.
“We drew from Miami’s rich and colourful identity, weaving in Delano’s iconic design elements. Our vision was to redefine the brand by tracing its origins and interpreting its true identity for the present day,” says Ria Vogiatzi Xenou, founder of Elastic Architects. “The historic Delano featured a defining detail: its iconic entrance curtains. We have honoured this signature moment with walls that are veiled with full dramatic drapery, flowing wavy textures and organic contours that exude
movement and fluidity – an homage to Miami’s coastal rhythm and the sculptural elegance of Art Deco architecture.”
She continues: “Art plays a definitive role in Delano’s redefined narrative. Where Delano was once whimsical, we have reimagined and transformed that spirit into artistry. Every piece of furniture is a custom-designed art piece, sculptural in nature, sophisticated and timelessly stylish. In collaboration with Nicola Green Studio, we also developed intricate, bespoke patterns and graphic motifs, inspired by Miami’s cultural and natural heritage. These motifs and patterns permeate the design, gracing area rugs, furnishings and decorative details throughout the property.”
In addition to 171 guestrooms and suites, Delano Miami Beach will be home to four F&B venues, as well as retail and event spaces, a wellness studio, spa, swimming pools and a beachfront amenity deck.
Meeting… Ho Kwon Ping
Fresh off the back of his Outstanding Contribution win at AHEAD Asia, the founder of Banyan Group reflects on three decades of pioneering hospitality.
Words: Guy Dittrich • Photography: Courtesy of Banyan Group
Iam an accidental hotelier, but an intentional traveller,” quips Ho Kwon Ping, also known as KP Ho, the founder and Executive Chairman of Banyan Group, a hospitality business currently operating over 90 hotels in 20 countries. These are primarily in Southeast Asia with outliers in Mexico, Cuba, Morocco, the UAE and Saudi Arabia. He dials in on a Friday afternoon from his home in Phuket, having just stepped off a plane from Singapore, where the corporate office is located. Fresh-faced, he wears a slim-fitting white T-shirt that speaks of a down-to-earth, utilitarian man. Calmly, he holds forth on a wide variety of topics that offer a fascinating insight to a mind always in motion. A keen mind that is never short of an opinion.
Elaborating on the self-appointed titles – which he also used to describe himself whilst accepting the Outstanding Contribution award at AHEAD Asia 2024 in recognition of Banyan Group’s 30 years in business – the intentional traveller reflects on his early life. There were family moves from Hong Kong, where he was born, schooling in Singapore, a stint in Taiwan, university in the United States before settling in Singapore. There were many journeys too, often back-packing, including a yet-to-be-completed tour of the Mekong River from source to delta. A few weeks before our call, he took a trip to Istanbul to look at upcoming
opportunities; then on to Marrakech to visit the riads operated under the Angsana Heritage Collection brand; and finally on to London.
The accidental hotelier moniker meanwhile, is a little more complicated. “I did some crazy things in my 30s,” he prefaces. One of these was oil exploration, of which he simply states: “It was an abject failure.” Chastened, he and his wife Claire sought refuge in a holiday home on Phuket, where they came across some nearby abandoned land, a series of lagoons that reminded Ho of his visits to Hawaii. It was cheaply acquired without a clear idea of what to do with it – a punt taken without much due-diligence. It subsequently emerged that the land was heavily polluted from tin-mine dredging. To make it usable, they began its rehabilitation – many years of earthworks to replace the acid-leached topsoil and the planting thousands of trees. Slowly, the idea of resorts came into being and the first few properties of Laguna Phuket were outsourced to management companies. “Eventually, due to a lack of takers for one of the properties, we said we’ll do it,” he explains. “And that’s totally by accident.”
In 1994, Ho opened the flagship Banyan Tree Phuket, which included the brand’s first spa. First-hand experience of Laguna Phuket revealed a world of orderliness and tranquillity compared to the majority of the Thai island.
Banyan Group’s mission to embody the romance of travel spans properties such as Banyan Tree Dubai and Ubuyu, a Banyan Tree Escape
Neighbouring resorts include Angsana, Cassia and Homm Suites – all part of Banyan Group.
A banyan tree is a fig, recognisable by its aerial roots. The business name comes from the small fishing village of Banyan Tree Bay on Lamma Island, just off the coast of Hong Kong, where the newlyweds had found a small home. Such a botanical motif points clearly to the importance of the natural environment to the couple. “The venture started from the very DNA of Claire and myself,” he reveals. “She studied development sociology, I studied development economics. We’re both of a generation where Asia was coming out of its poverty, and development was very much at the heart of what we sought to do,” Ho recalls. They disagreed with the Western model of what protecting the environment involved. “I call it the ‘Greenpeace model’, which is basically ‘screw people if you have to, but the endangered snail species is more important’.” Rejecting this simplicity and given their heritage, the duo recognised the trade-off between conservation and people’s livelihood.
The group’s guiding principle since its inception – ‘Embracing the Environment, Empowering People’ – still resonates today. “Both are equally important,” states Ho, referencing notable initiatives, such as a free kindergarten for the children of employees; the Seedlings programme to help at-risk children; the first marine conservation and education centre in the Maldives; and the ongoing local sourcing of the craft products sold in their Banyan Tree Galleries.
Our conversation moves on to design. The group’s ethos follows a strong sense of place, and Ho refers to the romance of travel. “For me the romance of travel has nothing to do with the physical luxury of the product itself,” he explains. “The notion was never one of exclusive luxury.” He references Bulgari and
“We never talked about signature standards or brand architecture – it was something that started out as pure, intuitive artistry.”
utmost importance. He later clarifies that he is not exactly sure this is written down, one of several moments of levity.
The business previously carried out all design work in-house via its own studio, Architrave Design & Planning. “It was disbanded, partly because we have grown so much, so now we work with many different designers,” Ho states. So, what do they look for in a designer? Affordability is one attribute, but they also look for “a mix between creative style and service efficiency,” he says, adding that these should not be mutually exclusive but are sometimes countervailing forces in practice.
Aman as two examples that pride themselves on their exclusivity.
I mention a brand design guidelines document that Ho professes not to have seen. “We never even talked about signature standards or brand architecture – it was something that started out as pure, intuitive artistry.” Though he does acknowledge that “once you become halfway successful, you have to start institutionalising things”. And herein lies the challenge. “Where do you infuse some degree of freedom to express what is the romance of travel?” he questions. “How do you go about giving a brand some air?” Certainly, there are some standards: “If we incorporate a private pool, it’s not so much the dimensions, the brand standard is that guests are able to swim stark naked.” It could be assumed that he means privacy is of
Time eludes us so we hop through a number of topics. Firstly, brand proliferation, where does it stop? “There’s no magic number for brands. I think we’ve reached our limit with 12 for the time being and there’s no clear segment of the market that we cannot reach, especially if we consider brand extensions,” he states, referring to the introduction of Banyan Tree Escape, Banyan Tree Veya and Angsana Heritage Collection. “And there’s always white-label hotels, XYZ by Banyan Tree, to deal with oneoff, unique properties that don’t totally fit a specific brand.”
And what of the relationship with Accor? Ho notes that Accor owns 5% of Banyan Tree. He sees that Accor’s presence in almost every country in the world provides reach, and when cooperating together they manage properties 50:50 and share the management fees. “I don’t think much of our DNA has changed because of our venture with Accor,” he concludes.
We close our conversation with a look to the future, as talk drifts towards global events and their impact on the hospitality sector. So, how is he planning to grow the business? Firstly, he looks to their success in the branded residences market, which is due in part to luck. “We’ve
“I’m an accidental hotelier, but an intentional traveller.”
Slated to open in 2025, Ubuyu, A Banyan Tree Escape in Tanzania marks the group’s first safari resort, offering guests a purposeful discovery experience
sold thousands of villas, at a few million dollars apiece,” he explains. This good fortune comes from the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which has seen a different sort of ‘invasion’ in Thailand that has driven very strong margins on sales.
“A recent survey by Savills ranked us as the fourth largest branded residence operator in the world by completed and pipeline schemes,” he beams. Quite an achievement considering they were beaten only by Marriott, Accor and Four Seasons. Phuket too shines brightly in Savills’ Top 10 Rising Locations for branded residences.
Secondly, the group also had a good relationship with Vanke, a large Chinese property development company that owns a 5% stake. “We sold all the hotels we owned in China to Vanke [the remainder were already managed hotels] together with 60% of our management company at a time when the property market was buoyant,” he continues. Following the postCovid collapse of the Chinese property market 12-18 months ago, they bought everything back when the market was low.
“We’re now building a growing cash pile, looking at buying small chains and absorbing them into our brand architecture,” Ho remarks. Though nothing is confirmed yet, he suggests that a chain of 20-30 smaller hotels would be ideal. And this makes sense, as by mid2025 the portfolio is expected to be around 100 hotels. “Unless the acquired chain had a very distinctive and strong brand, the hotels will probably be folded into the existing brand portfolio,” he adds.
KP Ho is a multifaceted character with great energy and broad knowledge. A rebel in his youth; he had two stints in jail; he has remained headstrong as the risk taken with the Laguna Phuket property purchase witnesses. He still has appetite to change the world for the good through the ongoing success of a regenerative family business focused on the long-term. Perhaps his path has been so interesting because of a philosophy he mentioned: “Half of what we achieve in life is due to luck, good or bad. We shouldn’t take ourselves too seriously.”
The Lana, Dubai.
KEY HOTEL PROJECTS
Lago Maggiore Retreat, Switzerland (2018)
Jali Hotel and Residences, Albania (2021)
The Langham, Gold Coast (2022)
Desert Rock, Saudi Arabia (2024)
Hotel Jali, Albania (2025)
La Maviglia, Puglia (2027)
Banyan Tree Bimini Resort & Residences, Bahamas (2027)
25 Years Of Oppenheim Architecture
Upon celebrating a milestone anniversary, Chad Oppenheim discusses the past, present and future of hospitality design.
The role of an architect has arguably evolved over the years, with the discipline now firmly focused on shaping the built environment in a way that benefits both people and planet. For Chad Oppenheim, this is nothing new. In fact, the founder of Oppenheim Architecture has dedicated the past 25 years to creating landmark buildings that are highly sensitive to their context and climate.
The self-proclaimed ‘architectural archaeologist’ goes beyond the bounds of conventional architectural production, studying people and cultures, technologies and materials, psychologies and experiences, to create buildings and spaces that connect people with the spirit of place. This approach goes hand-in-hand with the belief that buildings and their environment should be deeply symbiotic, where projects belong to their site and form follows feeling.
Now, a quarter of a century after the studio’s inception in Miami, its visionary founder reveals more about the journey so far.
ON THE INITIAL VISION
When I founded Oppenheim Architecture, my vision was to create spaces that celebrate the natural world while elevating the human experience. I was driven by the desire to design structures that honour their surroundings, forging a harmonious relationship between architecture and the environment. The goal was never just to build, but to craft experiences – spaces that resonate emotionally and spiritually. Our first projects sought to enhance the way people live, exploring new spatial experiences that improve life, while creating a great return on investment for our clients.
ON EVOLUTION
Our approach has evolved yet remains consistent – using architecture to create a better habitat for all species, most notably our own, to help people connect with the world around them and each other. Initially, the focus was on smaller, intimate projects that aligned with my ethos of sustainability and sensitivity to context. Over time, our approach has evolved to encompass larger, more complex undertakings. Projects like Desert Rock demonstrate this evolution – they are bolder in scale, yet retain our core values of integration with nature and thoughtful design.
Our journey has taught us to embrace technological advancements while remaining deeply rooted in the principles of timeless architecture. We not only consider the architecture, but are creators of new ecosystems that support a symbiotic relationship between humans and nature.
ON MILESTONE HOTEL PROJECTS
Desert Rock, nestled in Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea region, stands as a milestone. It’s a project that exemplifies our philosophy of building with the land, not on it. The resort is carved into the natural rock formations, blending so seamlessly that it feels as though it has always been there. This project was special because it challenged us to think differently about construction – how to minimise disruption and create something profoundly respectful of its environment. It was inspired by the original architecture of the Nabataean civilisation, which is in keeping with our philosophy of capturing the spirit of place with all our projects. It also connects with our vision of a more primitive future,
“The goal was never just to build, but to craft experiences – spaces that resonate emotionally and spiritually.”
where we integrate a visceral understanding of how to work with the land, using minimal external resources to create the most heightened experience in specific environments around the world.
One of my proudest moments was standing at the Desert Rock site, seeing our vision take shape within the timeless rock formations. Witnessing our team’s commitment to the principles of minimal impact and ecological respect reaffirmed the power of architecture to inspire and heal. Moments like these remind me why I started this journey. I hope that our ethos of doing more with less is an inspiration for the future.
ON CHANGES IN HOSPITALITY DESIGN
The shift toward experiential travel has significantly influenced hospitality design. Clients are now asking for projects that offer meaningful, immersive experiences rather than just luxury. It’s no longer just about aesthetics, it’s about creating spaces that tell a story and deepen the connection between humans and nature. It is also about preserving and enhancing the natural environment.
ON NEW OPENINGS
In addition to Desert Rock, we recently finished The Jewel in Australia. Both of these resorts redefine luxury with naturedriven design and advanced sustainability measures, including solar power and zero-waste systems. We also completed the design of Six Senses Wadi Safar, which is now under construction. This project, sited on top of a rock plateau with immense views over the valley surrounding it, interprets the architectural DNA of the ancient Najdi architecture.
We have also received permits for a resort in Puglia that celebrates the region’s unique architecture, finding lessons from the historical trulli and masseria that exist on the site.
A milestone project for the studio is Desert Rock, a resort carved into the natural rock formations of Saudi Arabia
Manufacturing a Better World
Solo Chair
Philippe Starck
Triada Benjamin Hubert
“Our future projects will not just coexist with nature, but will actively contribute to its preservation and regeneration.”
Plus, we are working on an incredible resort on the Cape of Cabo, as well as a retreat in the Swiss Alps that combines traditional chalet design with modern, energy-efficient technologies.
In Albania, we are working with the visionary Prime Minister Edi Rama to create a new destination on the coast. We are incorporating all the ancient techniques from the rich history of Albanian architecture. Each project continues our commitment to enhancing the human-nature connection. One other really fun project is designing a 300ft super energy-efficient yacht.
ON THE NEXT 25 YEARS
I envision Oppenheim Architecture continuing to lead in creating spaces that honour our planet. We aim to push boundaries in sustainable design, incorporating new technologies while remaining true to our core philosophy of timeless, contextsensitive architecture. The future will bring more collaborations with scientists, engineers and artists to address pressing global challenges.
ON HOTEL DESIGN IN 2100
By 2100, our hotel designs will be fully integrated within their environments, possibly even selfhealing and self-sustaining. Imagine structures that adapt to climate change, use artificial intelligence to optimise the guest experience, and actively restore ecosystems. Our future projects will not just coexist with nature, but will actively contribute to its preservation and regeneration.
Forthcoming projects include (top to bottom): La Maviglia, Puglia; Banyan Tree Bimini Resort & Residences, Bahamas; Hotel Jali, Albania
Gareth Banner has been a driving force behind The Ned’s growth since its original London opening in 2017. He was appointed as pre-opening Managing Director of The Ned London in 2016 and promoted to Group Managing Director in 2022 to oversee the brand’s expansion into North America and the Middle East.
Current Projects:
The Ned, London; The Ned NoMad, New York; The Ned, Doha; Ned’s Club, Washington DC
Meeting… Gareth Banner
Fresh from overseeing the launch of its latest venture in Washington DC, the Group Managing Director of The Ned discusses design DNA, evolution and future developments.
When Soho House founder Nick Jones first visited London’s former Midland Bank headquarters in 2012, he was struck by its potential, immediately calling up Soho House chairman and investor Ron Burkle to make plans for its future. Over the next five years, the Grade I-listed building was transformed, launching as the first outpost of The Ned, a hospitality offer that fuses a hotel with a members’ club and vibrant F&B experiences. Since then, the brand has only continued to grow, launching properties in New York, Doha and, most recently, Washington DC. Overseeing the development, operations and design of these new openings is Gareth Banner, The Ned’s Group Managing Director.
What is The Ned’s core ethos?
To create a multi-faceted urban experience that seamlessly integrates a hotel, private members’ club and collection of public restaurants and bars. This upscale, multi-dimensional environment is designed as a playground for adults, offering stays where guests can enjoy the convenience of not needing to leave the property.
The Ned’s Club embodies this ethos by fostering spaces where like-minded, high-performing professionals can work, meet and socialise in a refined yet relaxed setting. The mission to blend business, leisure and social activities is reflected
in the comprehensive range of amenities and curated events available for members and guests.
How has the brand evolved?
The Ned has evolved significantly since its founding, though its core ethos remains unchanged. Initially, we didn’t set out to build a global brand. However, London’s success fuelled our ambition and confidence to expand internationally. This growth is particularly evident in our private members’ clubs, a space where we share DNA with Soho House – a brand that occupies a unique market position and has successfully scaled to 60 locations. While each property reflects its unique architectural and cultural surroundings, our dedication to creating spaces where professionals can work and socialise remains steadfast.
One of the most significant changes has been our focus on understanding each location’s market and adapting to meet the needs of our members and guests. For example, our approach to F&B and interior design ensures a sense of familiarity at every site, but we also tailor elements to suit local expectations.
The brand’s evolution into an international presence highlights its ability to adapt to different architectural histories and regional identities while preserving the essence of what makes it unique.
How would you describe The Ned’s signature interior design style?
Its aesthetic is heavily inspired by the 1920s and 30s, particularly the glamorous era of transatlantic ocean liners and Art Deco motifs. The London property, for example, was inspired by the Orient Express and ships like The Normandie. This signature design is characterised by luxurious materials such as brass and mahogany, vintage décor and richly patterned furnishings. Each Ned property reflects its location through thoughtful design that respects and repurposes the historical significance of the building.
What are the challenges and opportunities in working with historic properties?
Repurposing buildings, such as The Ned’s transformation of the Midland Bank in London, offers several notable advantages. Chief among these is the infusion of unique character, prestige and a sense of heritage into the property, which in turn enriches the overall experience for guests and members. The building’s architectural splendour also adds depth and authenticity to the brand’s luxurious appeal, allowing patrons to engage with spaces that are steeped in history and craftsmanship.
However, this approach is not without its challenges. The process of adapting such buildings for modern use often entails significant
complexities and considerable expense. Retaining the original integrity of the structure while ensuring it meets contemporary functional requirements can be both time-consuming and costly. The five-year refurbishment of the Grade I-listed Midland Bank, for example, underscores the substantial investment of both time and resources necessary to achieve a balance between preservation and modernisation. One of the key lessons we learned from the transformation of the building was that the scarcest resource wasn’t just the capital needed, but vision, creativity and courage. These elements were essential in bringing the project to life.
How do you select a new location for The Ned?
When looking for new development ventures, we prioritise culturally and architecturally significant buildings in prominent and diverse locations. As awareness of the brand continues to grow, we are also beginning to explore the potential of expanding the concept laterally and into more rural areas, adding new dimensions to our offering.
Upscale and sophisticated settings, combined with a focus on brand-building and a strong membership proposition, will always remain integral to our DNA. This approach ensures that each new site reflects the brand’s ethos while embracing the unique character of its
surroundings. We aspire to open in major gateway cities, focusing on political, financial and business hubs, offering our members the opportunity to join a global network.
What can you share about your latest opening?
Situated in the Walker Building in President’s Park, Ned’s Club Washington DC offers an intimate, elevated experience with tailored dining, entertainment and social opportunities, as well as panoramic views of The White House and the city’s most iconic landmarks. The Club occupies the upper three floors of the newly developed Milken Centre campus, once home to iconic institutions such as Riggs Bank and American Security and Trust Company. The interior design meanwhile honours the capital’s rich history with a vintage aesthetic inspired by the Art Deco and Neoclassical eras.
What’s next for The Ned?
We have an interesting and strategic pipeline planned for the coming years. Currently, we are exploring options at two locations in North America, one on the East Coast and one on the West Coast. Additionally, we are at an advanced stage of planning for a very special project in Europe. Closer to home, we will also soon be announcing an exciting new location in the UK, in the Home Counties.
In response to a growing demand for experiential hospitality offerings that prioritise sustainability without compromising on comfort, Danish studio Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) has teamed up with cabin manufacturer Nokken to develop a low impact accommodation alternative for eco-resorts and glamping sites.
Combining architectural finesse with environmental sensitivity, Softshell is a modular structure comprising a lightweight 18m2 timber-framed tent enclosed by a recyclable cotton-mix canvas. Designed to be disassembled and relocated with minimal site disturbance, Softshell contributes to an ecofriendly tourism model, reducing the need for permanent infrastructure in sensitive natural areas while offering guests a memorable, responsible way to connect with nature.
The design is also completely customisable with the potential to incorporate renewable energy solutions and adjust layouts to suit different settings.
“We wanted to create something that transcends the typical idea of temporary architecture,” explains Finn Nørkjær, Partner at BIG. “The Softshell challenges the boundaries of mobility and permanence, offering a structure that is not only functional but also enhances the environment in which it’s placed. It’s a step towards how we can build more sustainably while delivering memorable experiences.”
Designed to meet the evolving needs of the hospitality market, the structure’s flexibility enables operators to adapt it for various climates and terrains, from lush forested areas to desert landscapes, providing guests with a unique, immersive stay that remains environmentally friendly. “With the Softshell, we’re offering the hospitality industry something that stands apart from traditional tented structures,” explains Nokken co-founder, James Van Tromp. “It merges the design sophistication of permanent architecture with the flexibility of a temporary solution, catering to guests who want to be immersed in nature, but with the design aesthetic and level of comfort they would expect in a luxury hotel.”
Blurring the Boundaries
Parisian studio Uchronia presents its whimsical take on a surrealist hotel – as featured at the latest edition of Maison & Objet.
Parisian design collective Uchronia showcased its signature style at January’s edition of Maison & Objet, with an eye-catching take on the show’s theme of Sur/Reality.
Named Hotel Uchronia, the immersive installation saw visitors stepping through a dramatic velvet curtain to explore a series of whimsical spaces that fused art, design and functionality. First up was the hybrid café bar, a play on scale, proprtion and balance to distort visitors’ perception of reality. An oversized chair, for instance, provided the support for a dining table, while the bar doubled as a communal table, inviting viewers to rethink spatial norms.
The next setting, the master bedroom, saw a bed perched on a sloped podium to give the illusion of defying gravity. And in the bathroom, abstract-like mirrors were positioned to enhance the room’s surreal design, providing unexpected flashes of shape and colour. The final area, a gym
and garden, blended sport with nature. Towering sculptures represented giant figures frozen in athletic poses, animating the setting and bending the rules of scale and realism. Stacked structures meanwhile enhanced the sense of dynamism, introducing a vibrant rhythm to the space. Ensuring all elements of the hospitality experience were explored in its dalliance with surrealism, Uchronia also curated a number of transitional spaces within the imagined hotel, including a spa and smoking room. The former offered a tranquil setting through bright, luminous interiors, while the latter was a hushed cocoon bathed in soft light filtered in through stained-glass windows.
Once all corners of Hotel Uchronia were explored, visitors were left to continue their day at Maison & Objet, still mulling over the imaginative dreamscape and the blurring of realities it presented.
Nu Collection
Nu faucets represent a purity of visual expression and a synthesis of essential design elements: form, shape and colour. A collection that strips away the artifice to arrive at the essence of its timeless design.
Quiet Luxury
The perfect partnership can serve as a powerful affirmation of a hotel’s identity, be it an artistic installation for a creative urban hub, or a Michelin-decorated residency for an epicurean haven. For Parisian hotel Le Bristol – whose halls have long been a discrete home-away-fromhome for politicians, filmmakers and musicians – its centenary celebrations have offered the opportunity to affirm its position as a stylish proponent of ‘quiet luxury’ through a number of pop-ups and collaborations.
Teaming up with loungewear brand Sporty & Rich for the second time, Le Bristol has unveiled a limited-edition capsule collection of chic clothing pieces, whose vintage-inspired aesthetic embodies the hotel’s timeless elegance.
Demonstrating Le Bristol’s philosophy that luxury does not have to be ostentatious, the
collection draws on minimalist designs in a way that perfectly taps into the hotel’s cohesive branding. The range is characterised by fluid cuts and understated hues of midnight blue, cream, chocolate and heather-grey, with pieces including hoodies, sweatpants and pyjamas available in USA-made cotton jersey and cableknit cashmere, as well as smaller accessories such as caps and bags. Each piece is marked with a crest, or with the hotel’s famed address.
By kitting guests out in subtly branded merchandise, the hotel establishes a physical link between them that remains beyond their stays, whilst also affirming a key part of the property’s branding. “Le Bristol Paris is the art of the intangible, the very essence of quiet luxury,” says Luca Allegri, President of the hotel. Its latest collaboration proves this and more.
From Your Butler
“What exactly do the butlers at Raffles take care of? Simple. They do anything you could dream of and everything you didn’t know you needed,” writes fashion editor and author Derek C. Blasberg in the foreword to Raffles: From Your Butler. Published by Raffles Hotels & Resorts in collaboration with Assouline as part of its Hospitality Collection, the 240-page hardback – written by travel journalist Mark Ellwood – invites readers on a journey into the world of Raffles, where British refinement and Asian charm come to life through the lens of the brand’s legendary Butler Service. From Singapore – where Raffles and its butler service began – to Dubai to Boston, the tome explores how the brand’s definition of personalised and seamless service differs across five continents. Each Raffles hotel presents stories about how its butlers create magic, depicted through more than 200 exclusive photographs, visuals and vignettes. “The role of a butler is to make life’s landing a little softer, to reduce the chaos of the outside world,” reflects Blasberg. “The original quiet luxury, perhaps.”
Private members’ clubs of past conjure images of hazy days and debaucherous nights, but as the world becomes ever more health-conscious, a different kind of members’ club has emerged; one that swaps sequins for saunas and martinis for microbiome mapping.
The longevity club is a private members’ experience centred entirely around living well, for longer – blending the scientific and the spiritual to enhance human health and lengthen lifespan. According to venture capital investor Afterwork, it’s a sector worth investing in, with the market “projected to be worth US$44.2 billion by 2030, up from US$25.1 billion in 2020”.
Such growth has led to the likes of Kerzner International and SBE debuting new longevity
comfortable yet clinical. In Ibiza, Six Senses’ Rose Bar – the brainchild of longevity expert Dr Mark Hyman – features interiors by Jonathan Leitersdorf designed in line with the pillars of functional medicine, with an intention to regenerate and restore. “At Rose Bar, we believe that longevity does not need to be served in a clinical environment. It’s about creating a space that intuitively supports wellbeing while remaining medically suitable,” explains Talana Bestall, part of the founding team of Rose Bar. “The interiors embrace natural materials, with soft, rounded edges and flowing forms designed to soothe. Rose Bar also features circadian rhythm lighting that adjusts throughout the day, syncing with the body’s natural cycles to
Living Well, For Longer
An increased focus on living well for longer sees hospitality groups marrying the luxuries of hotels with the principles of functional medicine.
Words: Cara Rogers
concepts, while forthcoming ventures include a revolutionary clinic at Minos Palace Resort in Crete, where a pioneering approach to wellbeing targets ‘12 Hallmarks of Ageing’.
Also venturing into the sector is Maybourne Hotel Group, which recently unveiled Surrenne, a new wellbeing and longevity members’ club at London’s The Emory. “Design, facilities and technology are fusing together to create spaces that blend traditional spa modalities with science and a medical grounding,” explains Hattie DavidWilkinson, Global Head of Wellness & Longevity at Maybourne. “Data, diagnostics and AI are all being utilised to personalise programming, treatments and experiences. This methodology and technology is also incredibly effective for ever-evolving membership programmes, which weave in fitness, nutrition and lifestyle.”
Playing a role in providing a life-lengthening experience is interior design, with hospitality groups blending the luxury of a hotel with principles of science, crafting spaces that are
optimise function, energy and rest. Additionally, the spatial design follows a circular flow, intentionally guiding guests through a seamless loop of experiences. Every design choice is intentional, supporting the journey toward an extended health span.”
Similarly, at Maybourne’s Surrenne, interiors by Remi Tessier draw on the senses to enhance wellbeing. “The lighting is choreographed to adapt throughout the day,” David-Wilkinson reveals. “This is complemented by AI-generated soundscapes – even heard underwater – and the uplifting scent of Surrenne’s Energy fragrance.” Such wellness-focused design interventions come in addition to a wide experiential offer, including an active recovery zone with biohacking staples such as a medical-grade hyperbaric oxygen chamber and a full suite of diagnostics, microbiome mapping and epigenetic testing. While transformative hospitality is a longestablished offer, hoteliers are now embroiled in missions to lengthen, as well as transform, lives.
An ode to the traditions of the island it calls home, a new addition to Marriott’s Autograph Collection celebrates a lesserknown Cycladic destination.
Its name translates, somewhat poetically, as ‘ode to the wind’, but the design of Odera Tinos is in many ways also an homage to the landscape and culture of the island that surrounds it.
Tinos is one of a new wave of Cycladic islands attracting increasing international interest from visitors seeking something a little different to, and escape from the crowds of, neighbouring Mykonos, from which it is just a 30-minute ferry ride away. The emerging destination has a strong cultural identity and its own distinctive topography. In summer, its rugged landscape – largely terraced by the farming of generations gone by – is parched to a rusty brown that might make lusher islands look more attractive. Yet navigating the corkscrew roads that traverse its hills reveals a multitude of hidden delights. Famous for its marble artisanry, Tinos is as much about the villages, churches and monasteries that proliferate its rocky interior as the beaches that fringe its coastline.
Now, the island has its first full-scale luxury boutique hotel in the guise of Odera, an Autograph Collection property that opened its doors in May 2024, developed by Greek private equity fund Tethys in partnership with TConstructions. Nestled above Vourni Beach, it occupies a secluded bay on the west coast of the island. There are 77 guestrooms and pool suites on offer, as well as an expansive spa, meeting spaces, two bars and a signature Mediterranean restaurant, plus a private beach club.
Interiors are by Studio Bonarchi, which has tapped into Tinos’ local traditions, artisans and producers to imbue the hotel with a strong sense of place. This commitment to supporting the island’s craftsmanship is evident throughout. Tinian stonework, masonry and marble sculpture sit alongside meticulously crafted furnishings. And references to the ‘dovecote’ pigeon houses that punctuate the island’s rural landscape with their distinctive white geometric façades are subtly woven into the design scheme.
All guestrooms and suites are spacious and boast magnificent sea views from their terraces, most with dedicated plunge pools. An expansive 170m2 residence also features a large living area, private terrace, indoor patio, well-equipped kitchenette and two private pools overlooking the Aegean.
“The concept of Odera was to create something more than a hotel – to embody the island’s essence with a primary focus on sustainability and authenticity,” says designer Vangelis Bonarchi. “Odera meets this through a commitment to preserving the environment, celebrating local producers and supporting the island’s skilled artisans. We wanted to celebrate the island and
create a colour palette that means the hotel is in total harmony with its natural surroundings, connected to the earth and its topography.”
The resulting scheme exudes a serene sophistication, with furnishing from the likes of Blossom, Lamprinidis Furniture and Mavromas-Antonopoulos, alongside carpets by Petratos and lighting by Vimar. A key partner in the project was fabrics and furnishings specialist Vagenas, which supplied and installed soft furnishings, fabrics, wallcoverings, cushions, day beds, bedspreads and decorative pillows throughout the property.
The hotel is also home to the Odera Art Initiative – a striking and varied ensemble of artworks by a host of Greek and international artists that reflects the cultural heritage and natural landscape of Tinos. The collection has been assembled under the auspices of curators Anastasia Sgoumpopoulou and Anastasia Tsoureka Saracaki.
Furthermore, Odera’s developers have taken sustainability seriously, repurposing rock from beneath the property to form its foundations, deploying solar panels extensively and harnessing
Studio Bonarchi has drawn on the island’s signature craftsmanship to infuse interiors with a sense of place
geothermal energy for heating and cooling. The water used for the hotel’s many pools is supplied through a borehole and cleaned with natural salt electrolysis rather than chlorine, whilst the wastewater used to irrigate plants is a by-product of the geothermal energy system.
Tinos is also home to a dynamic and fastgrowing culinary scene, as reflected in the menu at Odera’s Eos Bar & Restaurant. Executive Chef Dimitris Skarmoutsos blends tradition with a modern flair, showcasing taverna stalwarts such as Greek salad, grilled fish and freshly baked bread in inventive and elevated ways. Tinos is gaining an international reputation for the quality of its wines too, a feat that sees Odera sourcing much of its wine list from the surrounding vineyards.
Down at the seafront, the sandy beachfront extends deep into the property to create an exclusive club, which is accessed by a pathway through the landscape, or via a short ride in a club car. Here, the Nosti Beach Bar & Restaurant offers a light menu of salads, sandwiches and
smoothies. Guests can also immerse themselves in the O Spa, a sanctuary of holistic wellness that features a hammam and pool, as well as an innovative Zerobody weightless dry float system by Starpool.
Although Odera has many attractions and amenities to keep guests on property, they are also encouraged to explore the island and immerse themselves in its culture, whether through exploring local vineyards, heading into lively Tinos town, or visiting the Panagia Evangelistria, the Holy Church of the Virgin Mary that is a major pilgrimage site for Greek Orthodox Christians.
Like many of the lesser-known Greek islands, Tinos faces the dilemma of balancing its newfound popularity amongst tourists with the needs of the local community. Conscious of avoiding the over-tourism that has affected the likes of Santorini and Mykonos, visitor groups are restricted to smaller numbers to ensure the local community is not overwhelmed by the increase of guests Odera expects to attract.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT
Investor: Tethys
Operator: Trésor Hospitality
Architecture: Panos Nikolaidis
Interior Design: Studio Bonarchi
Main Contractor: TConstructions www.oderatinos.com
Bisate Reserve
RWANDA
Artichoke weaves a narrative-rich design that honours the culture and creativity of Rwanda, celebrating its inspiring conservation story.
Conceived as an extension, but also an elevated version of the existing Wilderness Bisate Lodge, Bisate Reserve is a celebration of culture, landscape and conservation in equal measure.
With a deep reverence for its setting overlooking the volcanoes of the Virunga Massif, and cognisance of its greater purpose, the intimate four-villa property is luxurious yet mindful. And while designed to offer an ultra-exclusive experience, it expresses this through qualities that have increasingly come to equate a new understanding of luxury – peace, privacy and space.
Focusing on cultural immersion, the design embodies both functionality and authenticity, and honours Rwanda’s natural and creative heritage throughout the generous 200m2 suites and communal lodge spaces. But not only do the interiors and architecture reference their context, they were also largely created by local craftspeople using native materials. “By bringing together Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage and traditional craftsmanship, we’ve created a space that feels luxurious and is also deeply rooted in the land,” says designer Câline Williams-Wynn of Artichoke, the studio responsible for the interiors at Wilderness Bisate Reserve and the neighbouring Bisate Lodge.
Words: Julia Freemantle • Photography: Courtesy of Wilderness
This starts with the structures themselves, designed by Nicholas Plewman Architects. Unassuming from a distance, they blend in to the hillside like a bird’s nest in the tree branches. The structures were inspired by the reconstructed dwellings of Rwanda’s bygone royalty found at the King’s Palace Museum in the Nyanza District – their beehive-shaped thatched huts the impetus for the dome-like lodgings. “Spherical private rooms and public areas are a bespoke and sustainable solution for the inhabitation of the complex surroundings,” says founder Nicholas Plewman of the forms, which create a cocooning effect.
Each gracefully curved interior wall was handwoven from grass and reeds in a traditional style by local collective Irebe. “Given their commitment to cultural preservation, sustainability and community empowerment, a partnership with the organisation was a natural fit,” reveals Williams-Wynn. Irebe is also responsible for the handmade basket installation in the main area’s light-flooded
bathroom. In Rwandan culture, these Agaseke, or peace baskets, are made using a generationsold weaving technique called Inyanja and represent harmony – a fitting symbol of the way the design acknowledges its setting.
The tiling tells a different story of Rwanda’s craft heritage through a black-and-white colour scheme and patterns inspired by traditional Imigongo art – an intricate technique that dates back to the 18th century. A woven bench by South African outfit Houtlander in the entrance reflects this artisanal tradition in its own blackand-white geometric pattern.
Other tiles at Bisate Reserve are made from local volcanic rock, hand-chipped by members of the community. “Volcanic stone from the area is a powerful design element that not only grounds the space in its environment but also brings in a sense of durability and strength. Likewise, local red brick evokes the warmth of Rwanda’s landscape,” notes Williams-Wynn. Described by Artichoke’s team as “purposeful”, the tactile scheme encourages
Each of the dome-like structures features curved interior walls handwoven from grass and reeds by local collective Irebe
guests to engage with this setting, offering an emotive and sensory journey. Spaces that echo the same softness of the misty hills and lush forest beyond inspire contemplation and relaxation. “Our goal was to envision a rich experience that blends Rwanda’s culture with thoughtfully designed spaces,” reflects Williams-Wynn.
Beyond these overt visual references is a deeper layer of meaning. Wilderness’ conservation purpose has been brought to the fore and communicated by the lodge itself, while books on Rwanda’s history, culture and wildlife are found on various tabletops and shelves, encouraging learning and immersion. These are displayed alongside a variety of local crafts. “Incorporating individual art pieces allowed us not only to create a stimulating environment, but also to tell a story – enhancing the connection between guests and place,” explains Williams-Wynn.
The approach shows in different mediums and materials. Rwandan artist Rigobert
Uwiduhaye was responsible for the life-size gorilla paintings in both the public and private spaces. And Waldman Studios from South Africa created a mobile graphic installation in the main lodge with sepia-toned images depicting the people and primates of Rwanda. “This is one of the ways we wanted to provide a glimpse of the experience that awaits the guests,” she adds.
This experience centres on being in nature, which has quite literally been woven into the fabric of the interiors – embroidery by women’s collective Ibaba adorns armchairs and cushions. And in each villa, a curated pinboard details the area’s indigenous flora, with photographs, illustrations and paper art of species that have returned as a result of reforestation initiatives.
The extensive amenities too, reinforce this connection to the landscape and foster a mood of reflection. The endlessly comfortable bedroom has a wood-burning fire always on the go, while the en suite bathroom is equipped with a dressing area and a bathtub with full view of the volcanoes. The cosy kitchen-sitting
room has its own fireplace, and the curved deck, enveloped by plants, hosts a private wood-fired hot tub.
Guest experiences also invite engagement and participation through initiatives like tree planting. To date, Wilderness has facilitated the planting of 100,000 indigenous trees across a 42-hectare site that was previously farmland, forming part of a long-term vision. This in turn has prompted the welcome return of birds and wildlife species, regenerating what was originally there and bringing the forest ever closer. Golden monkeys and gorillas have even been seen nearby, demonstrating the power of returning the landscape to its natural state.
As holistic and immersive as the interiors and programming are, the team amplify and reinforce this still further. Deeply knowledgeable about the country and the land itself, most of the team are not just Rwandan, but from the vicinity. Their connection to the landscape, and pride in their culture, serves to create an environment that is as joyous as it is nurturing.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT
Owner / Operator: Wilderness
Architecture: Nicholas Plewman Architects
Interior Design: Artichoke
Art Consultant: Waldman Studios, Studio of African Wildlife Art
When Hong Kong-based developer Parkview unveiled its original blueprint for Battersea Power Station some twenty years ago, the plan was for two Hyatt hotels on the site, protruding from its iconic chimney stacked façade. That vision never came to fruition, yet now, two decades on, Hyatt has planted its Park Hyatt flag in Battersea, not at the Power Station but at nearby Nine Elms, the sprawling development zone anchored by the new US Embassy, thanks to a deal inked with R&F UK in 2020.
The plans for a hotel at Nine Elms date back to 2013 when Wanda Group, one of China’s largest developers, acquired a site for a towering hotel, intended to bring its luxury hotel brand Dalian Wanda into the European market, alongside two residential buildings. The Chinese government’s mounting scrutiny of overseas property investments by Sino-real estate companies put paid to that plan. But R&F UK eventually formed a joint venture with another Chinese developer, CC Land, to bring the Nine Elms Square plot back to life and open a hotel there.
The newly opened Park Hyatt London River Thames is just one element of a vast series of developments at which construction is now well underway. Extensive plans feature the creation of 2,300 apartments, as well as 120,000ft2 of commercial space and numerous shops and restaurants. The vision includes One Thames City, an exclusive new riverside
destination comprising premium residences, hotels, shops, restaurants and parklands.
The Nine Elms design team comprises some of the biggest names in global architecture: Skidmore Owings & Merrill (SOM), Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF) and Allies & Morrison. Landscape architects Gillespies meanwhile are leading on Linear Park, a green corridor stretching through the centre of the site from Battersea Power Station to Vauxhall Cross.
With all that in mind, it’s easy to see why this was such an appealing opportunity for Hyatt to introduce its most prestigious brand to London. The riverfront location directly opposite Westminster, for instance, allows for some stunning views over the most recognisable icons of the capital’s skyline, from the London Eye and Big Ben, to Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace.
Nearby Battersea Park meanwhile offers some 200 acres of green space. Cultural destinations such as The Oval cricket ground and Tate Britain are conveniently located close by, whilst the new tube station extending the Northern line to the Power Station brings all this within much easier reach of London’s other districts.
KPF were the architects for the building that houses Park Hyatt, with interiors by Japanese firm SuperPotato, which has worked on numerous Hyatt-branded properties in Asia,
although this is their first venture in London. Hotel architects Studio Moren was tasked with making the project a reality, as well as designing the interiors of wine library and tea lounge Tamisé.
Interiors epitomise the Park Hyatt brand in their elegant simplicity, with ever-so-subtle nods to classic English style offering some sense of place. The neutral, muted design is complemented by colour accents and notable artworks by a roster of contemporary artists including Ian Rayer-Smith, Jo Taylor, Françoise Delaire, Gabriel Leung, George Blacklock and Ewan David. And in the lobby, a striking bentwood installation by Charlie Whinney entitled ‘Ebb & Flow’ was inspired by the River Thames. Guestrooms feature a calming white and ebony colour palette, enhanced with William Morris wallpapers and accents of leather and brass throughout. Floor-to-ceiling windows ensure that every room is filled with natural light, and many have sweeping views over the city rooftops.
The property is home to four F&B venues, offering varied dining and drinking experiences. On the ground floor, The Nine Elms Kitchen & Terrace presents an extensive menu of small plates, sharing platters, grills and wood-fired flatbreads, whilst The Nine Elms Bar & Lounge is a refined yet relaxed area just off the main lobby, defined by its large-scale statement artworks. Elsewhere, Tamisé – the only part of the hotel designed solely by Studio Moren –offers a 300-label wine collection and curated loose-leaf teas in a setting overlooking the river. Restaurant Yú Gé meanwhile celebrates the essence of traditional Cantonese culinary artistry in a sultry red-toned setting.
The wellness facilities are some of the most expansive in London. An entire floor is dedicated to rejuvenation, featuring a serene indoor pool, a 1,550ft2 state-of-the-art fitness centre, a spa with panoramic views, a tranquil relaxation lounge and six treatment rooms kitted out with treatment beds from Lemi Group.
Another floor is dedicated to events, with
14,337ft2 of meeting space on offer – including one of the largest ballrooms to open in central London in decades, which can be divided into three spaces for more intimate events. A further seven meeting rooms can also be opened to form one larger space and connect to an expansive foyer. Given the hotel’s proximity to the US Embassy and the flexibility of its spaces, it will be an appealing new option for meeting and event planners.
“The opening of Park Hyatt London River Thames is a testament to our continued commitment to expanding our luxury brand offering across Europe, Africa and the Middle East,” says Javier Águila, Group President EAME, Hyatt. “Sustaining this momentum is key to our goal of hotels’ accommodating guests who are looking for the ultimate indulgence. With Park Hyatt London River Thames’ exceptional views, sophisticated design, memorable meeting spaces and second-to-none culinary experiences, we are confident that this hotel will exceed expectations.”
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT
Owner: R&F One
Operator: Hyatt
Architecture: KPF (external),
Studio Moren (internal)
Interior Design: SuperPotato, Studio Moren (Tamisé)
Art Consultant: Debut Studios
Procurement: Piatek
Landscaping: LDA Design, Maylim
Main Contractor: Multiplex
Project Manager: Avison Young www.hyatt.com
Work with our Art Advisors on carefully curated art collections that tell a story and amplify your creative vision—from Paintings & Photographs to Sculptures, Tapestries, Bas Reliefs, & More
Saatchi Art was honored to be the art consultant for Bellagio Las Vegas, working closely with Champalimaud on art for all the Suites.
Photography by Ye Rin Mok
Pendry Natirar
NEW JERSEY
DesignAgency transforms a storied Tudor-style mansion into Pendry’s first countryside resort.
Perched atop a hill amongst 500 acres in New Jersey’s wealthy Somerset County, Pendry Natirar’s original Tudor-style mansion has quite the colourful past. It was built in 1912 for Kate Macy Ladd, the daughter of a wealthy whaling tycoon and philanthropist, who would later go on to convert the stately mansion into a convalescent home for women. It was then purchased by the King of Morocco as a place to stay when visiting his son at Princeton. Over the years it weathered an economic crisis and allegedly fell into the possession of Sir Richard Branson, before being earmarked by Pendry Hotels & Resorts to become its first adaptive reuse, drive-to resort. As such, it is the perfect counterpart to Pendry Manhattan West, serving as a town-and-country experience. In fact, guests of the city property can simply jump on a train to Natirar, escaping to the peaceful countryside in a little over an hour.
It is this sense of retreat that drove the design brief from Michael Fuerstman, Pendry’s cofounder and Creative Director. “As hoteliers we
have a responsibility to create authentic stays for our guests, and here, it’s about experiencing the romantic ideal of an estate in the countryside; it would feel disingenuous to make the resort modern for the sake of being modern,” says Fuerstman. “You can feel the history in the patina, the weathered brick and the majestic fireplaces, within both the intimate spaces and the grand. We leaned into embracing the classic elements of Natirar as the foundation, and from there, we layered contemporary touches – sophisticated yet subtle design statements to bring the property to life.”
Further blurring the boundaries between past and present, Philadelphia-based CosciaMoos Architecture was tasked with using materials that reference the existing mansion to create a newbuild addition to house guestrooms, wellness and fitness facilities and a restaurant. Interiors firm DesignAgency – who also envisioned Pendry Washington DC – riffed off of this ethos. “It was an exciting challenge to interpret Pendry’s approach of ‘polished
comfort with a modern edge’ for its first countryside resort,” explains Founding Partner Anwar Mekhayech.
“We wanted to a create a memorable sanctuary that encourages guests to indulge in a luxurious escape while immersing them in the local context. Spaces focus on the romantic landscape, and each touchpoint underscores comfort, quality and refinement.”
The grandeur unfolds as guests enter through the mansion’s sturdy wooden doors to a entry hallway with a roaring fire and walls clad in vinyl manila hemp wallpaper from Phillip Jeffries. To the right, beyond equally ornate doors, is the reception area where DesignAgency employed an apt design tactic. “The reception is residential in scale so the desks are living room height, giving the sense of arriving at a friend’s home,” explains US Managing Director and Principal Alexandra Bruemmer Cole.
Guests are then led to The Great Room, where original timber panelling and yet another limestone fireplace holds court. “We introduced contemporary furnishings in the space to make it feel more modern,” says Bruemmer Cole, recalling Fuerstman’s modus operandi of blending sense of place with a signature
twist. “There’s a Ralph-Lauren-meets-Englishcountryside aesthetic taken into the next generation. We layered accessories that are unique to the area, paying homage to the horse country, adding in some of the treasures that were original to the house.”
The Great Room is flanked by smaller, yet equally well-designed spaces that truly conjure the many entertaining rooms of a stately home. In The Billiards Room, DesignAgency opted for blue tones to accentuate the intricate fleur de lis plasterwork ceiling. In the Library and Green Room, more calming, verdant hues are combined with velvets, suedes and leathers to offset the intricate timber panelling and original library shelves dating back over 100 years.
At the threshold of the old mansion and new construction, Ladd’s Tavern is designed as a conservatory in a period home, where natural light and the surrounding landscape take centre stage. “As soon as we saw the property’s sweeping views, we knew they should be the focus,” recalls Mekhayech. The exterior masonry provides an ideal backdrop to the bar crowned by Frey pendant lights by Currey & Co, while Menlo chairs from Palecek and soft green-
The Great Room is furnished with contemporary pieces such as the curved Elle sofa and Cordova cocktail table from Bernhardt
toned banquettes echo the rolling hills. Outside, terraced seating nooks surrounded by topiaries conjure garden follies from English country homes.
Another nexus of old and new is the Orangerie, a glass-roofed arcade that provides a moment to pause and admire the grounds on the way to the newbuild guestrooms and spa. Here, a modern interpretation of the mansion’s original grand staircase presides above cosy seating and a neon-lit artwork by Heidi Conrod. At Ninety Acres, the hotel’s signature restaurant and cooking school, copper clad tables amid exposed brick, floral printed velvets and a contemporary take on the mansion’s omnipresent limestone fireplaces set the scene for garden-to-plate cuisine provided by an on-site 10-acre farm.
In the hotel’s 66 rooms, guests are invited to relax amidst more hues of green set amongst decidedly English country-leaning features such as carved headboards, ceiling rosettes and oak flooring, accompanied by plush armchairs and elegant footboard benches from Lily Jack.
One of the most popular hotel amenities is
the impressive bi-level 12,000ft2 spa. Accessed via an imposing Danube marble spiral staircase, the tranquil space is characterised by sculpted, plastered walls, diffused LED lighting and the pièce de résistance – a tempered soaking pool that overlooks the acres of national park and Raritan Valley beyond. Treatments include a selfguided mud experience featuring ingredients harvested from the on-property farm.
Looking back on the long and often difficult journey of navigating a challenging renovation compounded by the Covid shutdown, Fuerstman reflects: “There were unexpected surprises in renovating a 100-year-old estate, although, that is the thing about these extraordinary developments – they are built to last generations and require love, attention and great stewardship. I’m very proud of the level of commitment and perseverance by everyone that has had a hand in contributing to this amazing place, and I’m beyond excited for our guests to discover this iconic destination, and to fall in love with Pendry Natirar, as I certainly have.”
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT
Owner: Bob Wojtowicz
Operator: Montage International
Architecture: CosciaMoos Architecture
Interior Design: DesignAgency
Art Consultant: Soho Art Consulting
Procurement: Benjamin West
Main Contractor: Epic Management
Project Manager: Joe Epifano www.pendry.com
Delano
DUBAI
Ennismore enlists Elastic Architects to reinterpret Ian Schrager’s signature Miami resort for the Middle Eastern market.
It was fun. On the terrace of Tutto Passa, the all-day-dining venue of the newly opened Delano Dubai, sitting with Mark Eacott, Global Vice President of Design at Ennismore, and Ria Vogiatzi, founder of Elastic Architects. The evening was mild, the view over the Gulf calming. We had only got as far as dipping our bread into the olive oil but already the gentle repartee had started.
“When I speak to people about Delano, they have the pool in mind,” says Vogiatzi of the original hotel that opened in 1994 on Collins Avenue of Miami’s South Beach. “And the Rose Bar. Both very iconic.” Eacott chips in with a reminder about the curtains, and lot more besides.
We meet to discuss the Middle Eastern iteration of Delano, Ian Schrager’s early epistle on the resort hotel. A project in which he oversaw the work of Anda Andrei and Philippe Starck, not known for hotel design at the time.
“We went through the archives and interviewed locals in Miami,” elaborates Eacott. “Obviously, there was the hedonistic side - the amazing pool scene where Starck created a ledge for guests to engage. No one was doing that in hotels back then.” He continues, listing other iconic Delano traits. The partially sunken furniture in the pool, the white-on-white, the dark to light transition from corridor to guestrooms and the checked floors.
The tone-on-tone guestrooms feature a textured palette of grey marble, soft leather and linen-effect wall finishes
“Delano has depth; this is not a superficial copy of what went before,” notes Vogiatzi. Eacott explains of the project that was completed in an exceptionally tight eight-month construction period: “All these things we picked up on and then added a twist or a variation – it’s Delano 2.0. This was a very special project. After all, we were not only creating a new flagship in a new market, we are also telling the next chapter of the Delano story, 30 years later, in a way that feels both respectful to the legacy of the original and in tune with the energy and style of Dubai. The balance has to be just right.”
Delano Dubai is the renovation of the former Caesars Palace, set on what is possibly the most pleasant beach in Dubai, one of the few places along this stretch of the Gulf where waves actually lap upon the shore. The golden sands of the Dubai coast do not stretch as far as those in Florida, yet are equally pristine.
The hotel sits on Bluewaters Island, developed on reclaimed land by Meeras, part of Dubai Holdings and completed in 2018. The island is a mix of branded residential, retail and resorts. The stylish modernism and slim minaret of the Masjid Tasamah Mosque can’t be missed upon arrival, setting the tone for a potential blueprint for future Dubai neighbourhoods. Delano is this one’s new beating heart.
Here, it’s about surprise and softness. At the entrance, Vogiatzi uses sculptural marble pieces for low-slung seating beneath a shaded canopy lined with high verdant hedges. Step over the inset ‘D’ at the threshold (to become a design standard), through layers of long white drapes and into the large volume of the lobby. Backlit curves sweep across the ceiling, beneath which are curvaceous, custom-designed sofas. “They’re more of an art piece than a simple piece of furniture,” Vogiatzi enthuses. The former black stone flooring has been replaced with cherry wood, as the original terrazzo was in Miami. A short ramp down to the elevators is lined on one side with a
velvet-covered banquette that twists down the slope in a way that slightly disrupts the way you sit. A quirky, unexpected surprise.
The guestrooms of the former property required softening. “The black and dark tonality was too intense,” explains Vogiatzi. “We wanted to make it softer.” A tone-on-tone approach was taken – white on beige, grey marble, linen-effect wall finishes, soft leather for the headboard and lined window shutters above a cosy, padded alcove. Splashes of Delano’s sage green come via the notepad and internal lining of the hanging cupboard. Further elements of self-care include Byredo toiletries, Humantra electrolytes and Nutrili dietary supplements.
There are more surprises in Rose Bar – or the jewellery box as Vogiatzi calls it. The circular counter is crowned by an oversized cut-glass chandelier and the focus is on the cocktail list. Red velvet upholstery and drapes, alongside mirrors give definite sex appeal. Curtains pull back to reveal intimate tables and the pièce de résistance, the dance floor. Its transparent surface amazes. The oversized, amorphous furniture covered in mirrored mosaic astonishes. It’s small but infinite. “A magical, crazy and unexpected experience,” according to Vogiatzi.
The bar is part of the poolside activation – its front door inserted into a wall of greenery; the entrance lined with pots of roses. There is a speakeasy entrance through a hidden door in the private dining room of Tutto Passa.
The restaurant also activates the pool. Interiors are inspired by the Amalfi Coast – a curved fabric ceiling installation references the sea – whilst the open kitchen, terrazzo floor, textured plaster and terracotta speak of a homely, maternal Italian kitchen. The terrace is shaded by a pergola of horizontal lamella. These are also seen on the poolside cabanas. Both pick up on the vertical detailing of guestroom terraces in the original architecture of WS Atkins.
The all-new Delano Penthouse, designed by La Bottega, is an achievement in its own right, occupying a whole floor with a private elevator.
From the terrace with pool, the uninterrupted views of the Gulf and Dubai skyline are unmatched. So too are the outdoor furnishings and lighting supplied by RH Contract. The interiors include five bedrooms, kitchens by Bulthaup and large living spaces, which are available for functions, and are furnished again by RH Contract plus Molteni and Poliform. Materiality is high quality. The beautifully patterned parquet flooring is seamlessly smooth. The variety of the stonework on floors and walls is astonishing – as is the solid marble tub. To get an idea of the scale, the penthouse occupies what was previously a Peruvian restaurant. The art curation by Curio is highlighted in the penthouse. Founder Shalini Misra describes it as “a seamless blend of modern sophistication with natural textures and regional influences, creating an atmosphere of understated luxury”. There is great variety in both formats and
Photo Credit Natasha Boyes
origin, with several artists based in the UAE. The fluidity of the works of German Christoph Schrein are seen in large format here but also on every keycard. White artworks are prevalent – take the ceramic collages by Studio Ceramx founder Maureen Gamal at the entrance, or the plaster finish of the minimalist works above the beds of standard guestrooms.
That many of the design cues of the first Delano have been respected and brought back to life is testimony to the rigour Ennismore applies to the design process. A rigour required because of the variety of its different brands and the speed with which new properties are coming to market. The property was the first Delano 2.0 resort to open and will be followed by the re-opening of Miami in late 2025, where Elastic Architects are also major protagonists. Maison Delano Paris, an urban equivalent, opened quietly in 2023, with other similar opportunities being scoped out for London and Seoul.
The timescale of the project sees several elements of the property incomplete at the
time of review. Amongst these are Blue Door, a Mediterranean restaurant with a secluded garden behind a blue door, and Maison Revka, a Parisian celebration of Slavic gastronomy. Reached from the hotel’s lobby via a flight of ‘look at me’ stairs, the brasserie features a lot of detailing to create a 19th-century Parisian look. The restaurant also services the hotel’s second pool, accessible only to guests in suites and diners. There are two other venues - La Cantina Beach and Gohan, a Japanese dining experience. Both are by Rikas Group, which has many existing outlets in Dubai and recently partnered with Ennismore.
Delano Dubai is neither a faithful copy – there are no original Art Deco buildings in Dubai –nor a radical revision of the original Miami property. Instead, it is an edited translation of the emblematic characteristics of the first Delano. Or as Eacott puts it, “the flavour of Delano”. A flavour that addresses the challenge of striking a balance between exclusive yet welcoming, whilst also allowing for expansion.
Interior Design: Elastic Architects, SA Consultants, La Bottega, Y Design Art Consultant: Curio www.delanohotels.com
Oi Soi Oi – Made by hand, handle with care.
Oi Soi Oi is a Danish company. We design and produce our own interior universe. All our lampshades are made by hand in our workshops in Vietnam. We are on the ground so we can follow the production closely. We work with many interior designers and can customize our lampshades.
Classic Pumpkin at Hotel Bella Grande, Copenhagen
Hotel Bella Grande
COPENHAGEN
CoFoCo tasks Tonen Agency to create a boutique hotel in Copenhagen, where a nostalgic design scheme takes centre stage.
Situated on Vester Volgade just a few steps from the City Hall Square, Bella Grande is the second hotel from Copenhagenbased restaurateurs and hoteliers Copenhagen Food Collective (CoFoCo). The group has carved out a significant niche in the Danish capital’s competitive F&B scene with 18 restaurants now in operation, many of which are popular fixtures among tourists and locals alike.
As a result, it’s no surprise to find the restaurant taking centre stage in this latest addition to the portfolio. Almost the entire ground floor of Bella Grande plays host to Donna, a sprawling, buzzing Italian restaurant. Its interiors are in marked contrast to the Scandichic minimalism of the many Copenhagen restaurants offering interpretations of the New Nordic cuisine pioneered by Noma – not least in several of CoFoCo’s own venues.
Interiors are the work of long term CoFoCo collaborators Malene Bech-Pedersen and Mette Bonavent of Tonen Agency, and their design scheme is a feast for the senses, bringing the flair
of La Dolce Vita to Denmark. Taking inspiration from a Venetian palazzo, they have transformed the former Hotel Kong Frederik, originally built in 1899, into a staged set of spaces that look like they could have been a backdrop to the Sicily-set second season of The White Lotus. “The interior design plays with a nostalgia that is utterly elegant, yet also unexpected,” say the designers. “Starting with the lobby, the ground floor offers richly layered spaces that work as a dialogue between the past and the present, and a mix of colours that are somehow vintage and contemporary at the same time.”
In the lobby, a polished chrome reception counter sits in front of a bank of cubby-holes accommodating old-fashioned tasselled room keys, neatly arranged in Wes Anderson-esque symmetry. Indeed, the Grand Budapest Hotel film also appears to have influenced the choice of typeface for the signage, as well as the fuchsia, pink and blood-red colour scheme on display in the main restaurant atrium.
Previously dark and underused, the space
has been brought back to dramatic life with chequered marble flooring and arched nooks that provide a backdrop to curvaceous banquette seating upholstered in a variety of floral and candy-stripe patterns. Tonen has sourced a range of vintage objects and artworks to sit alongside more contemporary pieces – many of them courtesy of Danish manufacturers: furnishings from &Tradition, lampshades by Oi Soi Oi and bespoke vanities made locally by Københavns Møbelsnedkeri.
On the upper floors, guestrooms have been refurbished and rationalised from the complex historical layout inherited from the former Hotel Kong Frederik. Here, the colour scheme is muted and more calming than in the public areas. Ege Carpets can be found in the corridors, while Bell lamps in chrome by Tom Dixon sit atop side tables from Polspotten, alongside gently curved bedheads. Another Danish firm, SofaCompany, has supplied a variety of soft furnishings in bespoke fabrics, including Judi armchairs, multifunctional poufs and Charlie
benches. “The soft shapes and padded legs of the various designs really helped add roundness to the décor, and the use of customised fabrics result in a scheme that feels uniquely Bella Grande,” says Bech-Pedersen.
“Both Bella and Donna are very much unmistakable expressions of our style,” explain the designers. “We love the historic references, mixing vintage with new design and the use of materials that age beautifully.”
“We had two important pointers,” they add. “First of all, to create a design hotel that is a true treat to the eye, and second to highlight the historic and very classic architecture of the building. The guestrooms should be luxurious, with high-quality materials and references to Mid-Century Italian design.”
James Spreadbury, who worked as Noma’s Service Director for 12 years, is now overseeing CoFoCo’s operations following a sabbatical in his native Australia. He says that some of the spaces may be structurally rearranged or adapted to different uses as they figure out
which areas work best for which purposes at different times of day. “Originally the plan was that the atrium would just be this front space, and the back space would be the restaurant,” he reveals. “But as soon as the atrium was completed and became such an attractive space, it very quickly became the heart and soul of the hotel.”
On the evidence of Sleeper’s visit, Donna has become a huge hit with locals as well as hotel guests, with Tonen Agency revealing that it was aiming to create a romantic space that morphs into more of a club-like atmosphere as the evening progresses. A sense of fun pervades, even in the basement bathrooms, where a fairground style ‘candy-grabber’ machine dishes out kitsch prizes, ranging from pink rabbit ears to cuddly toys.
“We fell in love with the restaurant-nightclub feel that we found in Italy,” conclude the creatives. “It’s moody and mysterious, but most of all it’s an atmosphere of wanting to conquer the night.”
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT
Owner / Operator: Copenhagen Food Collective
Architecture: Wabé Studio
Interior Design: Tonen Agency
Graphic Design: All The Way To Paris, Spring/Summer www.hotelbellagrande.com
Rosewood Schloss Fuschl
SALZBURG
Rosewood enlists a team of European creatives to transform a 15th-century castle into a luxury lakeside retreat.
Perched on a small, steep-sided peninsula jutting into the western end of Lake Fuschl, Rosewood Schloss Fuschl’s location is simply stunning, with views taken straight from a postcard. Just to the east of Salzburg, the wooded Voralp mountains of Salzkammergut – an area partly designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site – are dotted with glacial lakes, their crystal waters at once turquoise and midnight blue.
The 98-key luxury hotel comprises a restored castle tower dating back to the 15th century, built as a hunting lodge for the clerics of Salzburg. Adjacent are six lakeside chalets, alongside three newer wings of guestrooms that lead to the lobby and Asaya Spa, creating an intimate semi-enclosure around the tower.
Rosewood Schloss Fuschl is the third of a Deutsch-Austrian triumvirate of recent openings by the Asian brand that include hotels in Vienna and nearby Munich. Both properties are owned by Arabella Hospitality, part of the Munich-based Schörghuber Group. Schloss Fuschl was acquired in 2004 and, after a major renovation, re-opened in 2006 as part of The Luxury Collection of Starwood.
Doris Nusmeier-Bellár, Design Lead at Arabella Hospitality, takes up the story. “The property is close to the Schörghuber
From floral rugs in the lobby to wood flooring in the guestrooms, colour palettes and patterns throughout draw on the surrounding nature
family’s heart,” she explains. “Florian [son of the deceased Stefan who made the acquisition] sees the re-positioning as completing his father’s work. My main task was to ensure that all the different areas of the hotel had their own persona but clearly shared the same values as the rest of the family.”
The responsibility for achieving this was divided amongst a number of providers. Munich-based Dippold Innenarchitektur was appointed – without a pitch – based on the scheme delivered at the bar and restaurant of Rosewood Munich, both of which were shortlisted at AHEAD Europe 2024. Founder Caroline Dippold and team were responsible for complete makeovers of all existing F&B venues, as well as the creation of three new ones. G.A. Group, which is also working on another hotel project for Arabella Hospitality in Mallorca, designed the guestrooms and suites in the newer part of the hotel, all the public spaces and the extensively remodelled spa. Bauer Stahl, based in nearby Linz, added Austrian ambiance all round, specifically in the five Heritage Rooms and two suites found in the tower and the lakeview chalets. And styling was by German-born Diane Nittke, a Rosewood regular.
This family of creatives has coalesced well, in line with Nusmeier-Bellár’s goal. “We were aligned in our approach,” confirms Terry McGinnity, Executive Design Director of G.A. Group. “We would share one another’s colour palettes to ensure harmony between spaces.” McGinnity too praises the input from stylist, Nittke, quipping: “She sourced all the books, which made our shelves look better!” A high level of cooperation was necessary given the two-year timescale to complete the works. “It was a very nice
cooperation,” adds Dippold of the openness between all parties involved.
And the positive vibes continue with the operator relationship. “It’s always a good experience working with Rosewood,” states Dippold. “It’s very familiar. Of course there are disagreements, but you’re always arguing in the same direction, towards the same common goal, to get a better solution.” McGinnity is equally enthusiastic: “The level of detail Rosewood brings to projects as an operator is fantastic; the touches that elevate the interiors, give it a heightened sense of personal luxury and beautiful layering.”
It’s this layering that plays into Rosewood’s Sense of Place, a phrase so important to the group that they have the trademark. Historic buildings are a breeze for Rosewood – and Schloss Fuschl is heritage heaven for starters. Existing collections of antique furnishings were drawn upon sparingly. New chandeliers from Dippold hang besides refurbished ones. Authenticity was key for all collaborators – the original wall structure of the tower’s deep window was carefully exposed by local restorer, Henrich Helminger.
The surrounding nature – from the water to the flora as it changes through the seasons – is deeply rooted in colour palettes and patterns. Rugs in the lobby and suites have wide borders patterned with flowers – not just from Austria or Salzburg, but from the valley itself. “Doris was very exacting,” explains McGinnity of the many iterations of patterning. A similar level of attention to detail was given to the corridor carpets, reminiscent of the delicate lace of a traditional dirndl dress.
Fabrics commonly used for regional clothing such as weighty felt, loden and burlap, in greens and greys,
are seen in curtains and upholstery. Other local materiality comes by way of solid wood flooring and extensive stretches of lamella in the spa. And in a moment of levity, decorated salad bowls from nearby Gmundner Keramik are repurposed as basins in the chalet bathrooms.
In play are a number of local craftspeople, artisans and artists. Vienna-based Marie Hartig handpainted a series of landscapes for the interiors of standalone mini-bar vitrines. Her largest work can be found in Schloss Bar. Also handpainted and using only four colours, it brings nature into this atmospheric space, a combination of refined detailing and the solidity of its hunting heritage, completed by a roaring log fire with antlers above.
The bar occupies the oldest part of the tower and is a connection point for much of Dippold’s work. Her operational know-how ensures better access throughout Schloss Restaurant and also creates more space for banquette seating in the less formal Vinothek, that leads to a terraced biergarten. A former incidental corridor-like
space has also been given new, feminine life as the Sisi Teesalon, which recognises the hotel’s role as the location for the iconic Sissi trilogy – one of the most successful German film franchises of all time, following the life story of the 19th-century Empress Elisabeth of Austria. Above Schloss Restaurant is a glazed winter garden, the Seeterrasee, where Dippold sees the most impact of her work. The view gives the impression of being aboard a ship at sea, while the spatial arrangement gives Florian Schörghuber the outside bar he always wanted.
Arguably, the addition of a kitchen to the lakeside See Club will be more impactful, dramatically improving guest service. In addition to pergola-covered seating and live entertainment, the beach club-inspired venue serves up fresh seafood and grill specialties overlooking the Austrian Alps.
The hotel’s Sense of Place comes also from its distinctive art collection. Curated by Britt Ulsess of Blue Lion, a Schörghuber subsidiary, the selection comprises Old Master paintings
The Sisi Teesalon is anchored by a Pieter Fransz de Grebbe painting depicating a young bridal couple
from the Low Countries and France between the 16th and 18th centuries. “Together they create the atmosphere of the castle in the 15th century,” explains Ulsess, noting that the hotel is the only one with a collection of Dutch Old Masters. Indeed, it’s not in every hotel that guests will pass an original 300-year-old oil painting on the staircase. In Schloss Bar – her favourite room – hang numerous related paintings. Man Drinking Beer by Karl Van Mander and CardSharpers by Jacob Von Oost are still relevant today. The Hunting Party by Jacob Ochtervelt sits in front of Hartig’s forest-like mural and its wooded background almost blends in, in a moment of serendipity.
Such art placement has the effect of enhancing a guest’s perception of a space, as Ulsess notes: “In the Sisi Teesalon, the young bridal couple in Pieter Fransz de Grebber’s painting creates an atmosphere, making the lounge feel as if it is already occupied.” The outlier of the collection is a huge, statement piece from contemporary artist Georg Baselitz, a citizen of Salzburg. In
his typical upside-down style, it hangs in the double-height lobby, a space designed by G.A. Group from a mish-mash of existing rooms. For better contrast, the largely white canvas hangs in front of an untreated, wood panelled wall.
The same idea is reversed along lengthy guestroom corridors. Here, simple wood panelling, this time in white, provides the appropriate backdrop for the rich tones of the various Old Masters. “It’s a really simple device to create a textural language that gives an essence of the original building,” McGinnity points out. And it’s those deep colours – the russet, midnight blues, green baize – seen on a guestroom sofa as easily as a dining chair, that bring cohesion to the connected spaces.
This understated melange of historic and new elegance elevates the interiors at Rosewood Schloss Fuschl. The success of the complementary work of all the different creatives involved is testament to both the enduring guidance from the owners and the relentless pursuit of excellence from Rosewood.
Tapping into a growing desire for authentic hospitality, a new hotel in Edinburgh introduces a sense of place at every touchpoint, from the architecture to the artwork.
Living like a local has become a high priority for seasoned travellers, with the desire to experience a destination in a more authentic way prevailing over time spent traipsing around the customary tourist attractions. This approach applies to everything from retail to restaurants, as well as the overnight stay, with the challenge for designers being to avoid the clichés and create hotels that delve deeper into the fabric of a destination.
For The Resident, a growing brand from Mactaggart Family & Partners, the clue is in the name, with properties serving as a base from which guests can connect with the local neighbourhood and ultimately, feel like a resident. Having undergone several iterations over the years, beginning life as Base2Stay before being renamed Nadler Hotels, a change in leadership in 2018 led to a rethink, and the brand has now found its place in the UK market as The Resident. With David Orr at the helm as CEO, existing properties in Liverpool and London –including Covent Garden, Kensington and Soho
– have been rebadged and repositioned, and now, expansion beckons with a new opening in Edinburgh.
Located on a quiet residential street at the boundary of the West End and New Town, the 164-key hotel occupies the former HMRC offices known as Meldrum House. Regarded as an eyesore against the Georgian architecture of the surrounding streets, the building has been treated to a structural upgrade and new façade, with MLA taking the lead on the architectural transformation. And though a knock-downand-rebuild approach was considered, the operator felt there was an opportunity to bring together old and new. “Instead of a newbuild, we repurposed an existing structure in a way that embraces its past and sustains its future,” explains Orr. “We saw past the blight of decades-long notoriety to transform it into a quality hotel, and more importantly, we did so sustainably, which aligns with our values.”
As such, the concrete frame has been retained minimising unnecessary construction waste,
A sense of place is evident in the colour scheme and FF&E selection, with
while further sustainable redevelopment initiatives include the recycling of 8.5 tonnes of glass during deconstruction. For the new façade, MLA opted for sandstone in keeping with the adjacent buildings, introducing a more contemporary look through vertically paired window frames and elegant cladding at the upper and lower levels.
A careful balance between the traditional and the contemporary continues inside, where the ‘resident’ narrative also comes into play. “Every aspect is designed to enable guests to feel truly at home in the city,” reveals Orr. “Ultimately, we want guests to feel like they are staying in a homely environment rather than a traditional hotel, a place where they can immerse themselves in Edinburgh while still enjoying comforts and understated luxury.”
The interior design scheme has been conceived by Caroline Smith, founder of Wish Interior Architecture, in collaboration with consultant Creative Director Craig Allen, and builds on the style and functionality of other properties in the portfolio, with the key point of difference being a distinct sense of place. “The ethos of The Resident is to arrive as a guest and leave as a local,” explains Smith. “We have worked closely with Resident Hotels across all of their sites and put a great deal of consideration into the selection of fabrics and finishes of each property to ensure individuality; a sense of place is so important to the brand.”
In Edinburgh, there’s a rich tapestry of cultural and historic references to work with, though a conscious decision to avoid the archetypal tartanalia meant looking elsewhere for inspiration. “Our aim was to instil a sense of place without referencing the usual tartan and Brigadoon,” Smith continues. “We adopted a subtler approach to tell our story, celebrating both Edinburgh and Scotland yet delivering it in a rather more sophisticated and contemporary way. Our design narrative pays homage to the location and connects guests to the surrounding area: the colour palette comes from the land, while texture and quality of light is of huge importance in Edinburgh and helped inform our decisions.”
Earthy tones such as olive and oatmeal take cues from the hills visible in the distance, while saturated hues nod to the city’s affectionate nickname of Auld Reekie, meaning ‘old smoky’ in reference to the dense smoke that once billowed out of chimneys. A further sense of place comes from the FF&E, with many of the finishes and furnishings sourced from local artisans. “We sourced furnishings and accessories locally to celebrate heritage and quality, as well as strengthening the hotel’s identity,” Smith notes. Sofas are crafted by Charlotte James Furniture, based just south of Edinburgh; guestroom throws are by Corrinne Muir Interiors in Stirling; and chairs are upholstered in Harris Tweed, handwoven in the Outer Hebrides. The design team also specified pieces from Glasgow studio Timorous Beasties, such as cushions in the classic Thistle range, and a dramatic Cloud Toile wallpaper that creates a backlit ceiling feature in The Library.
As with other properties in the portfolio, there’s no restaurant or bar at The Resident; guests are instead encouraged to explore the local area. There is however a spacious lounge with a mix of seating; through the day, the communal high tables are the ideal perch for laptop users, and come 5pm, the sofas by the fireplace are the prime spot for the nightly wine hour. Tucked away around the corner, The Library is an intimate residential-style lounge with cosy armchairs and a collection of books curated by Ultimate Library, all selected for their connection to the heritage and culture of Edinburgh.
Upstairs, the 164 guestrooms are well-planned for both convenience and comfort. The size of each module was largely determined by structural columns and the existing floorplate, meaning standard rooms are a compact 18m2 Despite this, there’s a still a feeling of space thanks to smart solutions and plenty of natural daylight from the floorto-ceiling windows. “We spent a lot of time planning the guestrooms because we didn’t want to waste any space,” Smith reveals, adding that the bespoke king-sized beds are
Timorous Beasties, Harris Tweed and Charlotte James Furniture among the suppliers
a brand standard, so other amenities had to fit neatly in alongside. In the entry vestibule, there’s a nifty bench that doubles as a shoe rack, as well as coat hooks and an umbrella stand – this is Edinburgh after all. A mini-kitchencum-cocktail bar is equipped with a coffee machine, microwave, glassware and crockery. Then there’s a wardrobe and vanity area, followed by the bathroom with a large walkin shower. There’s even space for a table and chairs by the window, to take in views across the rooftops. And up on the seventh floor, the two Junior Suites feature their own private roof terrace with sightlines to the castle.
And though most rooms do come with a view, scenes of the city can be seen in the artwork too. The limited-edition prints are created by the interior designer herself, having been commissioned by Orr and the Mactaggart Family to produce a series of originals. Under the guise of Urban Sketchliner – a personal passion that has developed into a business venture – Smith created seven pieces in her signature style using
ink and watercolour. “On one of the early site visits, when the hotel was under construction, we were able to access the roof and take in the incredible views, from the castle and across the chimney pots on the adjacent rooftops, to the Georgian architecture of New Town and the Firth of Forth beyond,” Smith explains. This cityscape became the inspiration, and after thousands of photographs to capture the changing light, followed by countless sketches in situ, the artist returned to the studio to create her own interpretation. And much like the ethos of The Resident, the artworks avoid the trappings of an archetype and rather reveal the city from a variety of different viewpoints – an aspect that perhaps only a resident would recognise. “There is something unique about the interior designer of a hotel also creating the artwork,” Smith concludes. “There was a real opportunity to ensure the colours of the art harmonise with the base palette of the interiors, resulting in a cohesive concept that brings together the sense of place we strived to deliver.”
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT
Owner: Mactaggart Family & Partners
Operator: Resident Hotels
Architecture: MLA
Interior Design: Wish Interior Architecture
Creative Direction: Craig Allen
FF&E Procurement: Occa
Art: Urban Sketchliner, Dacre Fine Art
Book Curation: Ultimate Library
Main Contractor: Morrison Construction
Joinery: Thomas Johnstone www.residenthotels.com
Populus
DENVER
Urban Villages enlists Studio Gang to envision the first carbon-positive hotel in the USA, setting new sustainability standards from design through to operations.
On a hiking trip in scenic Colorado, acclaimed architect Jeanne Gang was captivated by the eye-like notches that climb the trunks of the ubiquitous Aspen tree. So when she was later approached by sustainable developer Urban Villages to design the first carbon-positive hotel in the US, she knew she wanted to incorporate this native motif into the façade. Aptly named Populus after the scientific name for the deciduous tree, the construction, interiors, operation and lifecycle of this hotel seek to be a resounding test-case for the entire hospitality industry, proving that sustainability can, and should, play a starring role in every hotel project worldwide.
The shocking truth about the construction industry is that it is responsible for a staggering 45% of greenhouse emissions in the US. With this in mind, Urban Villages opted to use Holcim’s innovative EcoPact low-carbon concrete mix for the structure of Populus, bringing 30% lower CO2 emissions than the standard equivalent. Additional strategic steps to improve environmental performance include a continuously insulated façade system of glass fibre reinforced concrete (GFRC) cladding, which acts as a thermal regulator to keep the building warm in winter and cool during summer. Energy usage in the building is 100% renewable too, and the omnipresent Aspen-notch windows feature ‘eyelids’ that significantly reduce solar heat gain.
There was also the conscious decision to exclude an on-site parking garage, as steel and reinforced concrete are major contributors to a building’s carbon footprint.
Urban Villages then went on to offset the
hotel’s carbon footprint by partnering with Grassroots Carbon, OneTreePlanted and Terrapass to acquire 7,000 tonnes of high integrity, certified forest and soil carbon credits as part of its evolving, nature-based sustainability strategy. To further offset emissions, the developer planted over 70,000 Engelmann spruce trees in Gunnison County on a site that had been ravaged to near endangerment by beetle kill. The initiative is ongoing through partnership with the National Forest Foundation and One Night, One Tree programme – a promise to plant a tree for every room night booked, giving guests the feeling of making their own contribution to change.
Inside, every material has been thought and re-thought in a lengthy yet deliberate process. “Everything we have done has been about repurposing, re-utilising and giving materials a longer life,” explains General Manager George Prine, a Colorado native who was closely involved in the hotel’s development. “We
wanted to ensure that what we specified goes beyond the typical lifecycle of eight-to-ten years, aiming instead for 25-to-30 years.”
Operationally, the hotel’s restaurants follow a farm-to-table, table-to-farm philosophy, prioritising the sourcing of ingredients through regenerative agriculture partnerships with Zero Foodprint, Wolfe’s Neck Center for Agriculture & the Environment and the US Department of Agriculture, to ensure that all cuisine served at the hotel aligns with overarching sustainability goals. Any food waste is converted into nutrientrich compost using BioGreen360’s Food Cycling biodigester, and then returned to the very farms that supply the produce.
All means and methods are transparent and data-driven. “We employ principles of truth, transparency and tracking,” explains Prine, highlighting a partnership with Lotus Engineering & Sustainability to monitor the hotel’s carbon footprint, energy usage, waste output and offsetting strategies.
For the interiors, Wildman Chalmers Design developed a scheme that first and foremost focuses on sustainability; as such, every piece of FF&E is considered, from the innovative materials to the consciously sourced furniture. The result is an elegant and sustainable design that is deeply connected to nature and the surrounding neighbourhood. “We didn’t want guests to feel like we just inserted a design that has no context,” says Principal and Design Director Heather Wildman. “The challenge was to be bold, yet complementary.”
“Our aim was to build on the Aspen tree inspiration with a broader lens, to evoke the feelings and emotions of moving through nature,” she continues. “The interiors are far from shy but instil a sense of calm, embracing imperfections, layers of textures, and elements of surprise that showcase creative and sustainable design. We are excited for guests to discover and engage with the hotel’s artisanship and design details – many of which are meant
to be felt rather than just seen, and all of which add to a mindful and unforgettable experience.”
To emulate the forest floor, poured concrete was used underfoot for its promise of patina, while overhead, a distressed timber ceiling is made from salvaged fencing. Taking centre stage, the reception desk is hewn of a hollowedout Rio Grande Cottonwood tree, set against a shingle wall of beetle kill-infected pine to demonstrate how beauty can come from the ravages of nature.
Suspended above is a tapestry crafted from 500 sheets of Reishi, a leather alternative engineered from the root structure of mushrooms, developed by MycoWorks through its patented Fine Mycelium platform. The nature-inspired design continues with tables carved from rock, sinuous banquettes emulating the contours of the Rockies, and wall sconces from In Common With that mimic the parabolic form of Gang’s beloved windows, which soar to some 30ft in this space and bring in plenty of daylight.
Forest Group offers different drapery hardware solutions especially made for the hospitality industry. Whether you choose for our motorised curtain tracks or rods, blinds or manual curtain tracks your hotel guest will experience ‘the Forest Factor’. Which stands for a unique combination of beautifully hanging curtains, comfortable luxury and optimal ease of use.
THE TREE TRUNK
The ethos of the hotel is firmly embedded in the entire guest journey, even in the oftenforgotten transitional spaces such as corridors and stairwells. It begins at check-in with the presentation of the keycard, housed in a plantable seedpaper sleeve that guests can take to grow at home – a memorable keepsake.
Then it’s to the elevators, where the sounds of nature play on a loop, having been curated from hours and hours of recordings from across the Rockies. A mirror to the natural world, the melodies change as the day progresses, mimicking birdsong and weather patterns exactly as they are found in nature.
Corridors are a juxtaposition of light and dark, with a faux cork wallcovering highlighted by glimmers of metallic, seedpod-inspired sconces. All illumination is LED, and bronze wall lights designed in the shape of the Aspeneye windows have been integrated above each room number, giving the appearance of peeking through the leaves.
In contrast to the corridors, the 265 guestrooms are bright and airy. Fabrics and finishes were selected to comply with a host of sustainability standards such as Cradle to Cradle, with Wildman Chalmers sourcing carpeting from Forth Surfaces that will completely biodegrade at landfill. Even the OS&E package aligns with the ethos, featuring glasses hewn from recycled wine bottles, 100% cotton bedding from Bellino Fine Linen and soap that is collected after use and melted down into fresh bars by local manufacturer Mountain Time Soap & Supply. On the walls, a thought-provoking art collection curated by artist and environmentalist Katherine Homes extends beyond eye-catching visuals to encompass a full sensory experience inspired by the feelings evoked whilst sitting among an Aspen grove. In many rooms, the eye-shaped windows extend into a curved, cushioned window hammock, providing the perfect vantage point to take in the views and further connect with the outdoors.
“We wanted to be bold, bright and playful,” Wildman says of Stellar Jay, the hotel’s rooftop restaurant, bar and terrace, which is inspired by the lush canopy of a treetop as it changes through the seasons. Interiors are characterised by saturated gold tones and lime wash green hues, with end-grain wood flooring that offers superior longevity to planks. The venue is anchored by a custom lighting installation named The Canopy, designed by Wildman Chalmers and fabricated by Raw Creative, comprising recycled steel disks that playfully refract light to emulate sunlight peeking through the leaves. Wallcoverings are Carnegie Bio-based Xorel and cork, and there’s even a wallcovering from Organoids that features herbs and tea leaves in its composition.
In the private dining room, a handpainted, sepia-toned leaf motif by Denver-based artist Genevieve Smith gives the feeling of perching in a bird’s nest high in the canopy, accentuated by Aspen-eye windows overlooking
the surrounding mountains. Captivating art in the form of Yakisugi, the Japanese method of charring wood to preserve it, holds court near the indoor-outdoor bar. Designed by Katherine Homes, the browned and blackened wood art installation is a poignant message given the prevalence of wildfires in the region.
Offering 360-degree views reaching as far as the Rocky Mountains, Stellar Jay’s rooftop features a cascading garden envisioned by Superbloom, with indigenous perennials that provide an attractive habitat for local wildlife and insects, encouraging biodiversity. The fourseason garden features foliage that supports pollination, whilst also providing a cooling effect through shading and evapotranspiration. This continues back at street-level, where trees have been planted using an innovative technology that offers access to uncompacted soil, similar to a forest environment. In all, Populus serves as a verdant sanctuary in the city, from the ‘forest floor’ to the ‘canopy’.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT
Developer: Urban Villages
Operator: Aparium Hotel Group
Design Architect: Studio Gang
Architect of Record: Fowler Architecture & Interior Design
Interior Design: Wildman Chalmers Design
Art Curation: Katherine Homes
Landscaping: Superbloom
Main Contractor: The Beck Group www.populusdenver.com
Immersive travel has become increasingly popular in recent years, resulting in a flurry of new hospitality experiences that enable guests to truly connect with a destination, whether through curated art or cultural programming. At Cabane Tortin in the Swiss Alps, it’s the architectural design that facilitates immersion in the surroundings, with ingenious features making for a memorable stay.
Perched atop Tortin Glacier at an altitude of 3,000m, the remote lodge is designed by Norwegian architect Snorre Stinessen to foster a connection with the natural world. “This project endeavours to relate to its surroundings in a meaningful way,” Stinessen explains. “The design is influenced by the drama of the landscape and also provides a protective shelter for guests to immerse themselves in a unique experience.”
The eco-sensitive cabin is built on the site of an existing mountain hut and features a
striking cantilever housing a lounge and three bedrooms. The structure is fronted by floor-toceiling glazing that reflects the changing light throughout the day, and inside, cosy armchairs are positioned to maximise the panoramic views. “The cantilever feels as if it is suspended mid-air, while the slanting glass opens up the space as a freefloating observatory,” Stinessen concludes. “The oak panelled interiors are warm and welcoming, inviting the views inside and ensuring guests feel a connection to the mountain peaks.”
Design consultancy Greenspace delves into the archives, looking to stories of the past to build a brand identity befitting of a London landmark.
For a design consultancy that specialises in building brands through authentic storytelling, The Old War Office must be up there as the most intriguing of projects – its storied past serving as rich inspiration for the creation of a new-era identity. So when Greenspace was appointed to develop a brand vision for the historic landmark’s transformation into a luxury hotel and residences, the first task was to uncover a century of secrets.
“Our role started out as a place-making project to determine the building as a new destination in Whitehall,” explains Adrian Caddy, founder and CEO of Greenspace, adding that the scarcity of hospitality venues in the surrounding area brought an opportunity to develop a distinctive brand positioning. “We knew it would be luxurious, so our focus was to ensure we stay true to the building and its heritage; our mantra was authenticity trumps luxury.”
Staying true to the building began with simply exploring the site on foot – its miles of corridors and countless rooms that witnessed moments in history: Winston Churchill held office here, for example; it served as the command centre for World War I; and later became synonymous with secret agents. “As you walk around, there’s an immediate sense of awe; you imagine the conversations that must have taken place here,” Caddy continues. “We wrote a story based on ‘if these walls could talk’, which then guided an authentic brand identity.”
The first major milestone came in the renaming of building. “The client was concerned about calling it The Old War Office – it doesn’t sound like a luxury hotel,” explains Caddy. “Part of our task was to interview potential guests and residents; what we learned from them is that if they wanted to stay at the hotel or buy an apartment there, it’s because it’s The Old War Office, so it didn’t feel right to lose the name completely. We
then found thousands of letters in The National Archives and noticed that secretaries abbreviated the address to O.W.O. rather than type it out in full, so this became the new name.”
The discovery has resulted in a contemporary yet authentic appellation, its palindromic, symmetrical form serving as a neat and elegant logo. When Raffles came in as operator, the name also aligned with the group’s desire to preserve past treasures, and so Raffles London at The OWO was born. “This was an important moment in the project, because from there, we were able to set the foundations of the brand and start working on the identity of the different restaurants and bars within the development,” Caddy reveals. Much of the initial work came in establishing the typeface. “We looked at typefaces that were in use at the time The Old War Office was completed in 1906 and commissioned a bespoke set of fonts that would convey the aesthetic of that period,” he continues, adding that the aptly named 1906 typeface can be seen across everything from signage and menus to the website.
This is then complemented by details that are particular to each venue, with care taken to ensure cohesion with the interiors and concept. To achieve this, Greenspace worked in collaboration with Raffles, the interior designers and F&B teams, meaning that there’s a traceable thread through the guest journey, even extending to the artwork, cocktails and cuisine. For the Guerlain Spa, the branding take its cues from Goddard Littlefair’s design
“We want people to get as much pleasure from looking through a menu and choosing what to eat or drink as they do from sitting back and taking in the interior design and ambiance.”
ADRIAN CADDY
scheme, notably the elegant archways over the pool and carved into stone. The result is an undulating scallop motif that decorates the cover of a hardback book, which sets out beauty treatments and wellbeing programmes alongside colour photography.
For the restaurants and bars, Greenspace met with designers from The Office of Thierry Despont and created mood boards to foster a visual connection between interiors and branding. At The Guards Bar for example, the regal uniforms of the mounted cavalry across the road can be seen in the red leather of the dining chairs and menus, the latter embossed with gold lettering. And at Saison, the Mediterranean restaurant with botanic-inspired interiors, the seasonal approach of the cuisine is reflected in the illustrations by Édith Carron, each depicting a particular time of year on the French Riviera.
Mauro Colagreco’s signature fine-dining restaurant goes further still. The Michelinstarred chef’s cuisine focuses on the bounty of the British countryside, so in response, menus are crafted from sustainable materials such as corn-derived seed paper and recycled grass, complete with a debossed poppy design blooming on the cover. Greenspace also created a set of postcards to accompany the dining experience, each depicting the key ingredient of the dish. There’s radish, beetroot, kale and pear, as well as potato, lettuce and plum – some are etchings and watercolours that date back to Victorian times, while others have been newly commissioned. “The illustrations are printed
on compostable chlorophyll card and given at each course,” Caddy describes. “They serve as a keepsake for diners to remember the meal.”
In The Spy Bar – a hidden speakeasy down in the basement – the brand identity takes cues from the building’s real and fictional links to espionage. “The logo typography is set to look like code, and we designed the menu as a topsecret dossier,” notes Caddy, adding that Ian Fleming’s creation of James Bond was inspired by goings-on at The Old War Office. “The perforated inner page then reveals the eyes of Christine Granville – Britain’s longest-serving female spy – and transparent inserts evoke the negatives of covert photography.”
There’s also a ‘martini roulette’ card featuring redacted type that can be scratched off to reveal a surprise cocktail – another keepsake for guests to take away. Ultimately, it’s these moments that contribute to a memorable experience. “We want people to get as much pleasure from looking through a menu and choosing what to eat or drink as they do from sitting back and taking in the interior design and ambiance,” Caddy confirms. And the journey isn’t over yet. Greenspace continues to work with Raffles, more recently creating paraphernalia for Diwali and Christmas programming, as well as packaging for tea and cakes. “The Old War Office has been a great project for us; we like buildings that have a legacy,” Caddy concludes. “So much of life feels quite transient, but some things are worth investing in, because they could have a lasting impact.”
Hotel Construction Pipeline Asia Pacific
Retaining its spot as the most active region in the world for new hotel development, Asia Pacific has a total of 2,729 projects in the pipeline according to the latest data from THP, accounting for 623,306 rooms under construction.
As previously reported, China has the largest pipeline by far, with 1,292 projects planned by comparison to India’s 370. Even more impressive is that by key count, the People’s Republic accounts for more than half of the total rooms planned for the entire region.
It’s no surprise then, that eight of the top 10 cities are located in China. Shanghai leads the way with 17,055 rooms across 67 projects under development thanks to ventures from Accor, including a new Grand Mercure and a Swissôtel slated for the burgeoning Shanghai Hongqiao Gubei Business Development Area.
Elsewhere in the region, Indonesia has overtaken Thailand in the rankings, while India is experiencing a surge in construction. Indian hospitality company IHCL, for example, has set a new growth benchmark with 85 signings in 2024, 38 of which are under the Taj brand.
In all, Asia Pacific is set to add more than 160,669 rooms to its inventory this year, with a further 142,000+ planned for 2026.
TOP CITIES
SHANGHAI Projects 67 Rooms 17,055
HANGZHOU Projects 58 Rooms 11,978
SHENZHEN Projects 54 Rooms 11,605
BANGKOK
Projects 51 Rooms 12,664
TOP COUNTRIES
CHENGDU Projects 46 Rooms 10,310
SUZHOU Projects 39 Rooms 8,308
NANJING Projects 36 Rooms 7,203
For more information visit: www.tophotelprojects.com
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Of the 623,306 rooms in the pipeline, 59% (367,092 rooms) are under construction and 18% (114,275 rooms) are in the planning stage. It is within these phases that interior design schemes and FF&E fit-outs are being implemented.
GROUPS AND BRANDS
Within the THP database, Marriott International maintains its lead with the greatest number of projects in the pipeline following another record year of signings, while Hyatt is moving up the rankings thanks to growth of its Hyatt Regency brand, accounting for 12,583 new rooms across the region.
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All about the experience
Marriott has revealed plans for a major push into the outdoors accommodation space, with two acquisitions to start. It follows its branded peers into a space where glamping looks to be the new must-have segment.
The company has acquired US brand Postcard Cabins, and signed a partnership agreement with Trailborn, ahead of a promised launch of “an outdoor-focused collection” in 2025. Postcard has 29 sites, with over 1,200 cabins across the US; Trailborn has five hotel locations, with 559 rooms, plus a further two sites in development in the US. The move follows both Hilton and Hyatt in entering the segment in recent months, with similar partnership deals. Best Western, too, has signed its first outdoors offering. And in India, IHCL has acquired a majority stake in experiential accommodation brand Tree of Life.
Announcing the two Marriott deals, CFO Leeny Oberg promised: “Whether you’re looking for bespoke lodging near natural wonders, an elevated camping experience, or off the beaten path excursions in nature, our planned outdoorfocused collection is expected to offer a broad array of options for seasoned adventurers and first-time explorers.”
The Postcard sites are generally in woodland settings, with accommodation in self-sufficient cabins. Trailborn, meanwhile, describes its offering as “boutique hotels in the great outdoors” in locations such as the Rocky Mountains and Grand Canyon. Both portfolios will be integrated into Marriott’s loyalty and distribution system during 2025.
In July, Hyatt agreed an alliance with Under Canvas, linking up 13 outdoors locations to its loyalty programme. Accommodation includes safari-inspired tents, while many of the locations make a virtue of being off-grid and therefore off-line, with no internet or mobile phone signals. The contrasting environments
mean guests have an opportunity to enjoy stargazing, sitting around the campfire and old-fashioned conversation.
The move follows an earlier agreement signed by Hilton with AutoCamp, connecting sites to the Hilton marketing machine and loyalty programme. AutoCamp’s nine sites across the US claim to bring the boutique hotel to the great outdoors, and feature accommodation in Airstream caravans and cabins. A central block provides amenities, food and beverage options and organised activities.
Best Western is also testing consumer appetite for glamping, creating its Explorer Series and launching its first property. This will be Zion Wildflower, a seasonal glamping destination in Zion National Park that reopens in March 2025. The site had been developed by a BWH member, who wanted to add it to the platform.
Speaking at the group’s annual convention, Brad LeBlanc, chief development officer at BWH Hotels commented: “As I looked across our brands and where the industry is going, it is more and more experiential. We all see it. It is no surprise.”
Larry Cuculic, president and CEO of BWH Hotels said the launch had opened up plenty of interest: “We already have multiple leads of people with land who are interested because they see the opportunity associated with it. It seems to fit us well.”
In November, IHCL acquired a majority shareholding in the Tree of Life brand, which has been developed by Ambuja Neotia Group. The brand offers places to stay in off-beat locations, promising tranquil escapes from the everyday. IHCL already parters with the Ambuja Neotia on other hotel projects around India.
The Tree of Life properties are an eclectic mix with small room counts, including one fashioned from shipping containers, and others with Art Deco or modernist architecture.
Speaking at the company’s capital markets
day, CEO Puneet Chhatwal commented: “Tree of Life can be scaled very quickly because this is typically a conversion model where you can take existing hotels and convert them into operating hotels in six-to-eight months. And right now it’s a portfolio of 19 properties, but we see it reaching 100 properties very quickly.”
In Europe, hotel group PPHE has a close eye on trends, operating a campsite business in eastern Europe via its subsidiary Arena. It upgraded its first campsite in 2018, claiming to have created Croatia’s first all-glamping resort, with 183 luxury tents. The Area One 99 is particularly popular with German leisure travellers. The business has eight campsites around the Croatian coast.
Also testing out the experiential space is hostel brand Generator. In December, Generator took on management of the Boutique Camping village at the Wonderfruit festival in Thailand. Accommodation included private and shared tents and RVs on the site, with the shared accommodation option aiming to open up the event to more visitors. The five-day event, now in its ninth year, is held in open space outside Pattaya. Generator CEO Alastair Thomann commented: “We’re constantly redefining what travel accommodation should look and feel like for our community, to create unique experiences and spaces for our guests to meet, share and create memories. Festivals are all about community, so bringing Generator to Wonderfruit and injecting our personality and DNA into the cultural event is something we’re really excited about.”
HA PERSPECTIVE
By Chris Bown: At Hotel Analyst, we decided this outdoors trend was something we should take a closer look at. And then, while preparing this for you dear reader, Marriott revealed its acquisitions. That underlined we were right - the race is clearly on, to offer an ever wider range of staying options
for loyalty programme guests. But the Marriott deals point to the fact that the outdoors offering is not just about roughing it. While Postcard feels more like a proper outdoors experience, the Trailborn brand is more of a comfy hotel that happens to be out in the wilds. A night under the stars means different things to different folks.
HA PERSPECTIVE
By Andrew Sangster: There is a lot of confusion about what is meant by the term ‘experience economy’. Some people have seen it, mistakenly in my view, as a marketing fad, perhaps now superseded by other fads such as the ‘attention economy’. But the experience economy is, at its deepest level, a subsector of the services or tertiary sector in the chain of production. Notions such as the attention economy are not this.
There is also much confusion, even when it is seen as a sector in the chain of production, about what it entails. And it is normally too narrowly defined. As an example, the Centre for Economics & Business Research, a London-based consultancy, published research over the summer that defined it as businesses that provide memorable experiences. This encompasses holidays, leisure trips, community events, outdoor activities, holidays abroad and cultural outings. But it excludes pubs, restaurants, and other hospitality experiences. The CEBR is not alone in this relatively narrow definition.
The US Bureau of Economic Analysis pulls together data from industries including arts, entertainment, recreation, accommodation and food services that offer experiences. The challenge analysing the data is that it is based on traditional industry classification systems and many elements of the experience economy cuts across boundaries, making it hard to attribute how much economic output should be attributed to the experience economy.
In the narrow-ish definition, the BEA estimated last year that 4.1% of the US economy was experience economy businesses. The CEBR research estimated that in the UK, the experience economy is worth GBP134bn, almost 4% of the UK economy.
The UK experience economy, as defined by the CEBR, is expected to grow by 2.6% annually, which compares to the anticipated growth rate of the overall
economy of 1.6%. In a report and survey conducted in conjunction with Barclays, the CEBR found that 90% of consumer-facing businesses believe demand for memorable experiences is growing faster than for physical products.
Despite all this evidence about the potential of the experience economy, the Barclays / CEBR survey found only a minority of businesses were engaged in exploiting the opportunity. Staff training was where it was most seen, with 31% stating they had invested in this and 27% launching new products to provide memorable experiences.
The shift into the experience economy is profound and critical for hospitality businesses. In many ways, hospitality businesses are the tip of the spear of this industrial revolution. We are still not seeing enough made of the opportunity: the businesses highlighted in our story are just the beginning.
SPACs look to surrender
Soho House looks set to accept a take-private offer that values the business at USD1.75bn. The move will see an end to the group’s US listing, ending an unhappy period of less than four years on the public markets. The move comes as other hospitality businesses also linked to the SPAC period on the US markets of the last few years, come under pressure.
The revelation of the Soho House offer, which has the support of leading investors in the business, came as the group announced thirdquarter results. Revenues came in at USD333.4m, up 13.6% year on year, while adjusted EBITDA was USD48.3m and net income turned positive at USD175,000. The company pointed to total membership growth of 4.8% year on year, with membership revenues up 16.7% to USD107.4mnow almost exactly one-third of total revenues. Margins improved all round.
The USD9 per share offer, from an as yet unnamed vehicle represented an 83% premium to the recent share price - but is way short of the USD2.8bn valuation at the time the Soho House business launched via a SPAC acquisition. It has the support of Ron Burkle, and his
Yucaipa business, both major stakeholders in Soho House. Despite this level of support, the company will still be evaluating the latest offer via a specially convened board committee.
“Despite a choppy consumer environment, our long-term strategic focus on operational excellence and delivering the best member experience continues to drive improved performance,” commented CEO Andrew Carnie, as the results were released. “As always, I’d like to thank our teams for their passion and hard work, and members around the world for their continued loyalty.”
In early 2024, the company’s operations came under attack from agitating research company and short seller GlassHouse Research, which declared Soho House “a company with a broken business model and terrible accounting”. The report prompted company management to threaten an autumn delisting, as the board evaluated an earlier buyout offer. That offer, however, was rebuffed as the group opted to continue as a listed vehicle, for the short-term at least.
At serviced apartment group Sonder, also originally listed via the SPAC route, early 2025 brought news of board changes. Despite teaming up with Marriott during 2024, the company remains under sanction from US stock market regulators. Co-founder and CEO Francis Davidson has been replaced as chair of the board by independent director Janice Sears. Also joining the board is Erin Wallace, previously with Walt Disney.
The company is also feeling the heat from possible legal action. Law firm Bronstein, Gewitz & Grossman is threatening to put together a class action on behalf of Sonder shareholders, based on an accusation of corporate wrongdoing. Sonder continues to push forward on the integration of its portfolio with Marriott, after signing a 20-year licensing agreement in August 2024. That work remains ongoing, and meantime Sonder, still listed on Nasdaq, has until May 2025 to regain compliance with stock listing rules; notably, it is under sanction for failing to file its Q3 financial report in a timely
manner. The company previously restated its earnings back to 2023, after noting accounting and valuation errors. Sonder will also have to again combine its shares, which have tumbled in value, to meet the stock market’s minimum USD1 per share listing price.
Another hospitality SPAC that has seen the end of its days is Jaws Mustang Acquisition, which had its shares suspended late in 2024.
Barry Sternlicht was among backers of the blank cheque vehicle, which for a while looked like it might buy up a portfolio of Starwood Capital hotel assets. These were initially discussed as likely being the De Vere portfolio in the UK, plus 1 Hotels in Brooklyn and Central Park. But Starwood accepted an offer from Host for the Central Park property, and no other suitable replacement asset could be found to round out the proposed portfolio for disposal.
HA PERSPECTIVE
By Andrew Sangster: There were three ‘S’s that took the SPAC route in hospitality that we have been following – Soho House, Sonder and Selina. It’s been a difficult time for all of them.
The one not in our story above, Selina, was acquired out of administration by Collective Hospitality at the end of August last year. This latter business, based in Singapore, saw it as an opportunity to expand its lifestyle and experiential travel business.
What all three of the S businesses offered was a unique take. But they also all had much to prove in terms of their business models.
At Sonder, the issue was about overhyping its tech credentials in a similar vein to WeWork. It is a techenabled hotelier, not a tech company. The concept is essentially sound – to implement design and technology “to make a world of better stays”. But there is too much talk of revolution when it is clearly execution that matters.
The reality is that the same tech and design that Sonder has access to is available to all the ‘legacy’ hospitality companies. If Sonder is to have an edge, it is about starting without any baggage and being able to execute faster and more effectively than its longer-established rivals. But this has proved hard. And to be fair to Sonder, it has had to pivot from a
market where it was seen as a tech company with a mission to grow above all else. Investors have subsequently reviewed that initial take and now require profitability above all else.
Soho House has been our favourite S even after the Glasshouse report. If the subscription model can be made to work, then it becomes a compelling proposition.
Less compelling at Soho House has been its difficulties in driving stronger sales and profits at existing houses rather than just keep adding new ones. The Glasshouse criticism that Soho House is too focused on a younger demographic is something that resonates across the other S businesses too. Gen Z may be the future but it is Boomer and Gen X money that is going to be paying most of the tabs becoming due today.
Soho House can have more exclusivity and higher margins, or it can appeal to a wider group through more accessible pricing. The former is the better move if you need profits fast.
Sonder, and particularly Selina, suffered from this focus on the young, too. And Selina found it impossible to quickly pivot to the generations with the cash to spend on its ‘nomadic’ lifestyle concept.
For the SPAC ‘S’ crowd, it was not a case of too much, too young; it was too young, too much.
Covivio’s total hotelisation
European investment group Covivio has completed a successful two-year turnaround, which has seen the group increase its commitment to the hotel sector.
The signal that a new move is on was the acquisition of the group’s first hotel since 2020, with a purchase in Spain. Covivio said it was the first move of a new a strategy of growing hotel investment in southern Europe.
The December deal saw Covivio acquire the Iberostar Las Dalias hotel in Tenerife, paying Starwood Capital EUR81m for the 429-room, four-star property. The deal price represented a stabilised yield of 6.75% with operator Iberostar bound to a triple-net lease running to 2041.
The group has long held assets across the
European offices, residential and hotel asset classes. In 2022, it set out to reduce debt via disposals, while looking to improve its rental income; it also set out to increase its exposure to European hotels, deciding it preferred the long-term outlook of the asset class.
In an investor presentation in late 2024, the group called out its successes. EUR1.5bn of disposals helped strengthen the balance sheet, reducing LTV to below 40%. Rental growth was up 13.6% in two years, while the group increased its stake in subsidiary Covivio Hotels from 43.8% in late 2023, to 52.5% by mid-2024. Other key shareholders in Covivio Hotels are BNP Paribas, Generali, Credit Mutuel and Caisse des Depots, who between them sit on over 30% of the total shareholding.
During the first half of 2024, the group sold down several of its hotel holdings. Disposals included 13 assets in France, including three Accor branded hotels; four hotels in Germany; and one in Spain. Between them the disposals brought in EUR77m. The group also refinanced during the first half of 2024, with a EUR500m green bond issue. The paper has a nine-year maturity and a 4.125% coupon.
As of mid-2024, Covivio Hotels held a portfolio valued at EUR5,821m across 12 countries. Almost a quarter of the hotels are under Accor flags, with 16% trading under NH, 15% with IHG, and 13% with B&B. Two-thirds of the assets are economy or midscale, with one-third upscale. The average remaining lease length across 16 operators is over 11 years.
From the total, 81% of revenue comes from leased hotels, with 19% of revenues from directly operated hotels, located in Germany and France.
But for Covivio, probably the most complex hotel deal of 2024 was the untangling of crossholdings with AccorInvest, of a number of European hotel properties.
The pair’s starting positions saw Covivio Hotels owning 54 properties, which were leased under variable rent leases to AccorInvest. Covivio also owned and asset managed a further 60 hotels leased to AccorInvest, the result of
two joint ventures set up between 2010 and 2014. These involved outside investors Credit Agricole Assurances, Caisse des Depots and Societe Generale.
The resolution involved Covivio Hotels acquiring 43 operating companies, and transferring 16 other properties to AccorInvest. The company explained: “The deal with AccorInvest will enable Covivio to strengthen its hotel presence in areas with strong tourist appeal and significant potential for value creation through repositioning and management optimisation.”
Out of all the assets, two German hotels were re-leased to B&B, while a refurbishment plan is already in place for 10 of the Accor branded hotels in France.
The group also established its management platform under a new name, WiZiU, launching with 10 hotels and 1,150 rooms under management in French and Belgian cities. WiZiU was set up with the aim of taking on operation of the properties involved in the AccorInvest swap deal, once they were fully held in Covivio’s control. As a result, by the end of 2024, WiZiU planned to have 24 hotels under management, with 3,090 rooms in a portfolio worth around EUR500m.
“As part of our repositioning and performance improvement plan, having our own management platform is a key asset for our future development,” said Sebastien de Courtivron, deputy general manager of Covivio Hotels.
In December 2024, the management platform picked up a further 12 properties in a deal with French investor Atypio Hotels. Atypio, which has 38 properties in total, manages close to two-thirds directly, while outsourcing management of the remainder. Atypio focuses on Accor branded hotels in the three- and fourstar market segments.
Looking ahead, Covivio expects to grow its hotel investments further. Currently, it has around 20% of its portfolio in hotels, 30% in residential and 50% in offices. The aim is, by 2030, to have those percentages roughly equal.
In a November statement, Covivio confirmed: “This will involve continued strengthening of the group’s exposure to hotels, with the aim of increasing the group’s exposure to Southern Europe.”
Interestingly, the group is also looking to deploy a hospitality-led approach to its management of all its property assets, across both offices and flexible working options, and residential.
HA PERSPECTIVE
By Andrew Sangster: The hotelisation of real estate is perhaps exemplified by the direction of travel at Covivio. Not only is its share of hotel assets set to grow significantly but it is taking its hospitality learning into its other asset classes.
Covivio believes that the real estate investment market has reached a trough. It sees increasing investment volumes in hotels and some major transactions in German residential. The office market has seen “polarisation”.
At its Capital Markets Day held at the end of November it said how it would pursue office-tohotel conversion and deploy a hospitality approach in its residential investment. In a further nod to operationalising its office portfolio, it plans to accelerate the roll-out of its Wellio flex office brand. The key shift is the move from passive to active investment management thanks to the launch of its management platform.
In offices, Covivio talked about shifting from being a landlord to an operator and therefore “monitoring the whole value chain”. And its not just about flex office. Covivio described its ‘DUX’ approach (design and user experience), and smart building and connectivity.
DUX is being adopted “to create destination places, inspired from hospitality codes”. So there are lobbies, lounges, restaurants, business centres, event areas, wellness and fitness. These are delivered through partnerships and dedicated teams.
In residential, the hospitality experience is similarly being exploited to offer tenants “attractive design, and large amenities and service offer”. Services like F&B, fitness, event rooms, tenant app, concierge and so on.
Covivio said it liked hotels due to four factors: more demand than supply; the high yields, outperforming inflation and GDP; a flexible ownership model; and that the asset class is gaining traction in the investment market.
Hotels are not only a preferred asset class at Covivio but the experience of running them is being deployed across the other asset classes too. Everything is being hotelised.
Hotel Analyst is the news analysis service for those involved with financing hotel property or hotel operating companies.
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Performance benchmarking for the global hospitality industry
1. PARIS
New Year celebrations and multiple events drove Paris performance to an all-time high for January, according to data from STR. ADR and RevPAR peaked on New Year’s Day, while occupancy hit 84.7% on Wednesday 22 January, when Menswear Fashion Week coincided with a pharmaceuticals exhibition.
January 2025 (year-over-year % change)
Occupancy 66.6% ( 6.5%)
ADR EUR355.96 ( 6.3%)
RevPAR EUR237.03 ( 13.3%)
2. MUNICH
Munich’s hotel industry reported its highest December ADR and RevPAR on record in 2024, while occupancy matched December 2018 as the highest for the month since 2014. Performance peaked at an occupancy of 96.8%, an ADR of EUR164.90 and RevPAR of EUR159.54 – all on Tuesday 3 December.
December 2024 (year-over-year % change)
Occupancy 68.3% ( 10.9%)
ADR EUR127.79 ( 7.0%)
RevPAR EUR87.31 ( 18.7%)
3. JEDDAH
Jeddah’s hosting of the Spanish Super Cup 2025 led to a significant uplift in hotel performance in January 2025, marking the highest occupancy for the month since 2015. Each of the KPIs peaked on the night of the cup final between Barcelona and Real Madrid, driving average year-over-year RevPAR gains of 20.6%.
January 2025 (year-over-year % change)
Occupancy 70.5% ( 15.0%)
ADR SAR630.94 ( 4.8%)
RevPAR SAR444.84 ( 20.6%)
4. SYDNEY
Following the market’s seasonal pattern, Sydney posted an all-time-high ADR (AUD854.38) and RevPAR (AUD807.62) on New Year’s Eve, while occupancy reached 94.5% – its highest for the month. Of note, the second highest occupancy in December 2024 was seen on the first night of four Crowded House performances.
December 2024 (year-over-year % change)
Occupancy 78.8% ( 2.1%)
ADR AUD314.15 ( 0.9%)
RevPAR AUD247.43 ( 3.0%)
STR provides premium data benchmarking, analytics and marketplace insights for global hospitality sectors.
For more information and to subscribe visit: www.str.com
Dunluce Lodge, Portrush, Northern Ireland
Photography by Nick Callaghan
An esteemed panel of judges meet in the English countryside to discuss the merits of new hotels around the world, before voting for their winner of the Ultimate Accolade.
Over the past 12 months, AHEAD has named its best new hotels in four global regions, with the winners spanning city, coast and countryside, and representing every subsector of the hospitality market, from branded and independent, to luxury and lifestyle, to newbuild and conversion. From a record 700+ entries, accolades were presented for Guestrooms, Lobby, Restaurant and Spa, as well as special categories such as Sustainability, Accessibility and New Concept, culminating in a Hotel of the Year for each region. In Asia, Trunk Hotel Yoyogi Park in Tokyo took the prestigious prize. In the Americas, it was Rosewood’s Kona Village in Hawaii. In the Middle East and Africa, Six Senses Southern Dunes in Saudi Arabia came out on top. And in Europe, the landmark conversion of Raffles London at The OWO was triumphant.
Following ceremonies in Singapore, New York, Dubai and London, the awards programme culminated in AHEAD Global, a celebration of the best new hotels around the world and all those involved in their creation. In December, the AHEAD 100 was announced to reveal the hotels that accumulated the most votes within their respective regions, and earlier this year, the top 20 projects went head-to-head to be crowned best-of the-best. The task of selecting the top 10 and Ultimate Accolade winner fell to a panel of 25 judges from the regional panels, with developers, owners, operators, architects and interior designers all in the mix. There were senior representatives from Accor, Marriott International and IHG, as well as
Kerzner, SH Hotels & Resorts and Ennismore; studio leaders from Rockwell Group, AvroKo, Pierre-Yves Rochon and Tristan Auer; and major players such as Red Sea Global, CTF Development and Design Hotels.
The 25-strong panel participated in a special event held in collaboration with Global Headline Sponsor RH Contract, with a twonight stay at Estelle Manor in the Oxfordshire countryside. Proceedings began with a social dinner at The Armoury, where a menu of sushi and robata classics was served alongside champagne and cocktails. Some judges spent time wandering the grounds of the 85-acre estate, others took a bracing dip in the outdoor swimming pool or wallowed in the healing waters of the Roman-inspired Eynsham Baths, plus, there was an exclusive look at Fallow House, the resort’s new events space.
Judging took place in the verdant surrounds of The Glasshouse, with each project showcased via video and photography, followed by an in-depth look at everything from the architecture, interior design and FF&E specification to spatial layout, sense of place and the all-important guest experience. Each judge then cast their vote independently, ranking their top ten projects based on the above criteria.
With the hard work over, judges were treated to an afternoon at RH England – ‘A Celebration of History, Design, Food & Wine’. Designed by Sir John Soane with gardens by Capability Brown, the 400-year-old estate is set within the grounds of Aynho Park, and serves as a
showcase for all that RH has to offer. After welcome drinks in The Wine Bar, there was an opportunity to view the rare books of the Architecture & Design Library and watch the herd of deer grazing on the pasture; to scale the Stairway To Heaven and explore the meticulously designed roomsets; or simply relax by the fireplace in sumptuous surrounds of The Salon. A traditional afternoon tea of sandwiches and scones in the new Conservatory also brought ample opportunity for socialising in the beautiful setting.
Back at Estelle Manor, the AHEAD Global gathering concluded with dinner at The Billiards Room, with plenty of speculation over which hotel might win the Ultimate Accolade. With votes counted, the top 10 was announced online at the end of January (full list overleaf). Amongst the winners were a secluded sanctuary in the mountains, a sensitive conversion steeped in heritage and a richly layered city centre secret. Though all are markedly different, they share commonalities such as storytelling, a sense of place and attention to detail – qualities that all those in hospitality design strive for. In the end, it was Scorpios Bodrum that emerged as the Ultimate Accolade winner, having successfully made the transition from beach club to boutique hotel. The judging panel described the property as well-executed, in which every element has been considered; ultimately, it was the creative design, authentic F&B programming and palpable sense of community that proved the winning combination.
Scorpios Bodrum was voted the Ultimate Accolade winner, having successfully made the transition from beach club to boutique hotel. The venture builds on the success of the Mykonos hang-out – established in 2015 by Thomas Heyne and Mario Hertel – and marks the beginning of a global expansion for the group.
Transformed from sanatorium to secluded mountain sanctuary, Manna is a luxury retreat nestled in the dense forests of Greece’s mount Mainalo. Judges lauded the property for its “understated design that translates into an outstanding guest experience”.
Six Senses Southern Dunes – Umluj, Saudi Arabia
Red Sea Global / Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas / Foster + Partners / Muza Lab / SKS Studio
Blending traditional Nabatean architecture and Arabian aesthetics with panoramic views of the nearby dunes, Foster + Partners and Muza Lab have crafted a property that reflects the spirit of Saudi Arabia’s desert landscape – described by the panel as a “contextually relevant narrative that permeates every detail”.
Trunk Hotel Yoyogi Park – Tokyo, Japan Trunk Co. / Keiji Ashizawa Design / Norm Architects
Weaving lush greenery through a Brutalist-inspired, raw concrete structure, Keiji Ashizawa Design and Norm Architects have achieved the delicate balance of tradition and modernity that is synonymous with Tokyo, resulting in a “beautifully harmonised” design scheme, judges said.
Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort – Hawaii, USA Rosewood Hotel Group / Walker Warner Architects / Delawie / NicoleHollis / Vita Inc.
At Rosewood’s new Hawaiian escape, the judging panel were impressed by the resort’s striking sense of place, brought about by the juxtaposition of laid-back Polynesian charm with dynamic volcanic landscapes, resulting in an immersive guest experience.
Dar Tantora, The House Hotel – AlUla, Saudi Arabia
Royal Commission of AlUla / Kerten Hospitality / Shahira Fahmy Architects / EQI / MMG
Comprising early Islamic ruins sensitively converted by Shahira Fahmy Architects, this property was praised by judges for its careful conversion, which saw the use of historic architectural techniques to preserve original features.
Raffles London at The OWO – London, UK
Westminster Development Services / Whitehall Residences / Accor / EPR Architects / The Office of Thierry W Despont / Goddard Littlefair / AB Concept / DaeWha Kang Design / DPA Lighting Consultants
For the landmark restoration at one of London’s most prestigious addresses, a star-studded design team breathed new life into a former government headquarters – a project described as “a truly extraordinary conversion”.
Otro Oaxaca – Mexico
Integradora de Servicios Aliño / Grupo Habita / RootStudio
Tucked away behind an unassuming façade, Otro offers an authentic take on local hospitality. “An ode to simplicity”, said the judges, who commended RootStudio for its sustainable craftsmanship and elevated utilitarian aesthetic.
At Sloane – London, UK
Cadogan Estate / JLC UK / ReardonSmith Architects / Graf Paris
Blending elements of a chic Chelsea residence with elegant French influences, the design team behind At Sloane have crafted an elevated experience within a Victorian townhouse. Judges praised the “attention to detail that results in a feast for the eyes”.
“The definition of a luxury resort,” said the panel of Kerzner’s new Athenian hotel, built on the site of a 1950s beach club. Synthesising the original architectural vision with contemporary elements, the property echoes a modernist language while introducing One&Only’s luxury sensibilities.
CALLING ALL ARCHITECTS, INTERIOR DESIGNERS, DEVELOPERS AND OPERATORS...
If you have recently completed a new hotel project, it could be eligible for an award.
THE CATEGORIES
There are 16 categories open to enter, taking in every aspect of a hotel. The same hotel can be entered into multiple categories.
Accessibility
Bar, Club or Lounge
Event Spaces
Guestrooms
Hotel Conversion
Hotel Newbuild
Hotel Renovation
Lodges, Cabins & Tented Camps
Landscaping & Outdoor Spaces
Concept
Restaurant
& Wellness
CRITERIA AND DEADLINES
Hotels that meet the following criteria are eligible to enter:
ASIA
• Eligibility: opened between January 2024 and April 2025
• Entry Deadline: 25 April
AMERICAS
• Eligibility: opened between January 2024 and April 2025
• Entry Deadline: 25 April
MEA
• Eligibility: opened between January 2024 and June 2025
• Entry Deadline: 6 June
EUROPE
• Eligibility: opened between January 2024 and July 2025
• Entry Deadline: 25 July
TOP TIPS TO ENTER
• What’s the story? Tell us about the design concept, the inspiration and selection of furnishings and finishes
• Don’t underestimate the power of a picture; high-quality professional photography is crucial (avoid submitting renders)
• Submit a video; videos are optional, but they do help to bring the project to life
• For conversion and renovation projects, be sure to include before and after images to show the transformation
THE JUDGES
AHEAD’s judging panels comprise over 60 industry-leading figures, including owners, operators and developers as well as architects, interior designers and consultants. 2025 panels will be announced soon.
THE PROCESS
Once entries close, judges view the entries online and independently score each project based on a set of criteria; entries that showcase exceptional design and functionality, whilst demonstrating commercial viability will fare well. The highest-scoring projects in each category are then shortlisted.
Following the shortlist announcement, the regional judging panels meet in person to discuss and deliberate the merits of every hotel shortlisted. They then cast their votes to determine the winners.
For further information, download AHEAD’s entry guidelines via aheadawards.com
“This event is not only about talking new trends, but discovering the people who set these trends, act for the future and above all, really dare.”
The Lobby founder Dorte Bagge reveals what to expect from this year’s theme – Everyday Activism.
What is The Lobby?
The Lobby is an annual event for the hotel industry and so much more. Our guests see it as a ‘lobby’ – a place where meaningful connections are made, new friendships flourish and there’s a real sense of community. This is achievable thanks to the event’s exclusive and intimate setting, limited to just 250 guests. Our attendees often share that they have more time to build relationships with relevant decisionmakers. This is not just about exchanging business cards; it’s about meeting the people behind the business cards.
Who attends?
A carefully curated mix of top decisionmakers including operators, developers, interior architects, designers and suppliers. Attendance is by invitation only, ensuring everyone present is relevant and actively working on hotel projects worldwide.
Why is it relevant to the hotel industry?
We create a community where networking evolves into meaningful business relationships
and even friendship. We work hard to find fresh perspectives on current topics that are relevant to the hotel industry. We always aim to inform and surprise. Our goal is to present topics from multiple angles, ensuring a smarter and more impactful return on investment than traditional approaches typically deliver.
What networking opportunities are there?
We believe that to do good business, it’s not enough to just talk numbers – you need to build credible relationships. Humans naturally seek community and genuine connection. Our motto is that it’s easier, and more fun, to do business when there’s mutual respect.
Practically speaking, we pair people based on their preferences through a curated seating plan, placing people where we believe they can benefit from one another. We also facilitate and encourage conversation, creating the time and space for genuine interaction. Our event spans two days, providing opportunities to meet across various settings, from a pre-event gathering to the conference and after-party, with multiple touchpoints throughout.
How do you create an atmosphere of learning, curiosity and surprise?
Our goal is to awaken the hotel industry, open its eyes to current challenges, and foster a space for transformation and innovation. We achieve this by staying true to our beliefs and maintaining an equal footing with all of our guests. We believe everyone has an interesting story, and we create opportunities for a wide range of people to connect.
What sets The Lobby apart?
The majority of our guests say that The Lobby is one of the best events they attend each year. What they express is that there’s a high level of learning, friendship and business connections. Guests leave with new contacts and relevant insights. Many continue to meet worldwide – whether by arrangement or at other conferences and trade shows. Bottom line, we ensure meaningful connections for
our guests, while also providing opportunities to learn something new.
What is this year’s theme?
This year’s theme is Everyday Activism. We gather free and assertive minds to challenge norms, ignite conversation and build a more inclusive and sustainable world in hospitality and beyond. Everyday Activism isn’t limited by age or race – it’s for anyone, anywhere, at any time. The key is to act with purpose, heart, courage and a touch of boldness to bring about positive change in the hospitality industry.
The Lobby 2025 uses its platform to take a stand, and invites you to do the same. Guests can expect surprises and the chance to form friendships with a network of relevant, influential individuals.
Fusing tradition and innovation, StoneCircle is passionate about turning nature’s most enduring resource into a hallmark of luxury hospitality.
Words: Eleanor Howard
From the Egyptian pyramids and Greek temples to Roman palaces and Gothic cathedrals, stone has played a crucial role in architecture throughout history. Now, contemporary artisans are reimagining the ancient art form for modern-day use.
For British manufacturer StoneCircle, tradition and innovation go hand-in-hand.
Established in 1968 by self-taught stone carver and letter-cutter Bernard Vanhinsbergh, the Hampshire-based company is now helmed by his sons Jeff and Steve. Together as co-Directors, they are committed to upholding their father’s philosophy by sourcing raw materials from all over the world and using the latest technology and equipment to create high-quality products.
“Stone is one of the most sustainable construction materials, especially if chosen from a local quarry,” says Jeff of the benefits to using stone. “It does not have to be fired, it lasts more or less forever if properly cared for, and can be reused or recycled at the end of its life.”
It’s these very properties that make stone an ideal material for hospitality settings, as StoneCircle has proved. Passionate about transforming one of nature’s most enduring resources into a hallmark of luxury hospitality, the company has built a robust portfolio of hotel projects across the UK over the past 50 years, from Jumeirah Carlton Tower to NoMad London. “Stone immediately brings a feeling of elegance
and opulence to a hotel,” he notes. “It is also a good choice from a practical point of view, as it’s easy to clean and long-lasting.” And the applications are seemingly endless, from a patinated bronze frieze at CitizenM, Tower of London, to book-matched marble bedside pedestals at The Mandrake, London. “Our clients use stone throughout their hotel projects, from lobbies, bars and public restrooms, to guestrooms, bathrooms and suites, as well as spas and fitness areas,” he reflects.
Despite having supplied a vast number of hotels, each of StoneCircle’s projects is unique and therefore so is its approach. “We’ve been working with some of the most prestigious hotels in the country for decades, which means that we have a wealth of experience of working with interior designers, architects and contractors,” explains Jeff. “Everything we do is bespoke – we work with our clients and their designers to choose different types of stone and ways of fabrication that fit with the desired style and colour palette of the hotel.”
Most recently, StoneCircle supplied a oneof-a-kind console table to the forthcoming Montcalm Mayfair in London. Designed by Studio Mica and Studio Est, the Rain Forest Green marble piece fuses the precision of CNC technology with the artistry of hand-finishing, guaranteeing a flawless result. The surface of the marble is meticulously polished to enhance
its natural beauty, whilst the clean geometric shape celebrates contemporary design. “We use digital templating and surveying combined with CNC-equipped machines for most of the work, using files to cut and fabricate the stone on our saws and water-jet machines,” explains Jeff. “The stone is then hand-finished using traditional techniques.” This harmonious blend of nature and craftsmanship exemplifies the manufacturer’s commitment to assisting designers in bringing their visions to life.
All StoneCircle pieces are crafted on-site at its 2,800m2 stonemasonry factory, which was extended in 2015 to incorporate new technologies and sustainability operations. “We take our environmental responsibilities seriously,” he says. “We have implemented several measures to reduce our impact, such as rain and waste water recycling, which makes us almost self-sufficient in that aspect. We also use solar panels to provide 40kWh of electricity and surplus stone from production is collected and crushed for use in the construction industry.”
With the next generation at its helm, StoneCircle continues to draw on the tradition and heritage of stone masonry to carve a dynamic future, with a clear goal in sight, as Jeff concludes: “We’re striving to become the first choice for designers and specifiers in the hotel industry.”
www.stone-circle.com
SPOTLIGHT OUTDOOR FURNITURE
Be it a sun-dappled balcony or a palm-shaded poolside, these are the furniture and accessories enhancing the appeal of a hotel’s outdoor spaces.
RH Striata
RH has unveiled its 2025 RH Outdoor collection, which features a range of new designs crafted to enhance outdoor spaces. One such design comes courtesy of Belgian creative Mathias de Ferm, who has brought his eye for architectural detail to the Striata collection (pictured). Distinguished by a barrelback silhouette wrapped in handwoven all-weather rope, the collection features refined reeded detail on a sustainably harvested premium solid teak or all-weather aluminium frame. A slender opening at the back allows for a whisper of light to stream through, while reticulated seat cushions offer maximised performance and comfort. www.rh.com
1. Roda Philia
Roda has unveiled Philia, an outdoor sofa system designed by its Artistic Director of many years, Rodolfo Dordoni. Philia –meaning friendship, considered by the ancient Greeks to be the highest form of love – adopts a design that allows for multiple layouts. Modular grating – a wooden grille typically used in yachts – is Philia’s signature design detail, and the core of its supporting structure. Each module in the system features a slatted teak base reminiscent of nautical decks – a robust raised platform complete with a perimeter frame and slats that also act as tabletops. Philia’s back and armrests are lightly padded and can be adjusted to three different positions.
www.rodaonline.com
2. Vondom Pasadena
Vondom has partnered once more with Jean-Marie Massaud to create Pasadena, a new outdoor collection comprising a bar stool, modular sofa, side table and sun lounger. “The ambition of Pasadena is to take an archetype and transform it into something of architectural proportions, but with a large dose of comfort,” explains Massaud, adding that a balance between soft profiles, lightness and comfort is “the key to timelessness”. Using Vondom’s extensive experience with technical materials and weatherproof foams, the pieces can be used to achieve the comfort and sophisticated design that comes with the indoors, without sacrificing the freshness of the outdoors. www.vondom.com
3. Freifrau Leyasol
Freifrau has announced the expansion of its Leyasol collection with the addition of the Leyasol Sun Bed, a new piece designed for both indoor and outdoor use. Adding to a hanging chair, recliner and swing seat, the latest launch maintains the collection’s distinctive elegant metal frame. Designed by Hoffmann Kahleyss, it features a soft, removable cushion, adjustable backrest and integrated castors that ensure optimal relaxation. Further details such as concealed zip fasteners and a washable cover enhance practicality and ease of maintenance. The complete Leyasol collection offers design-driven furniture solutions for elegant comfort outdoors. www.freifrau.com
4. Talenti Jun
Talenti is placing the spotlight on Jun, a new collection designed by Marco Acerbis. The range, which comprises an array of relaxed seating and table options, draws on the elegance of teak for its clean, minimalist aesthetic. On chairs and sofas, the thickness of the wood has been reduced to let their plush cushions take centre stage. “The main characteristics of Jun are the balance due to the interplay between the voluminousness of the cushions and the very clean lines of the structure,” explains Acerbis. “A structure that merges with the fabrics of the backrest and armrest upholstery almost as if they were one, giving a sense of semi-dimensionality.”
www.en.talentispa.com
1. Gandiablasco Arena
Gandiablasco has introduced its second collection with Søren Rose. Inspired by the movements of sand dunes, Arena adopts rounded and organic forms that pay homage to varied forms of artistry, from basketry craftsmanship to Scandinavian veneer work. “From the graceful curves of the seating to the sleek simplicity of their components, every aspect of the Arena collection exudes sophistication and durability,” says Rose. “Arena has allowed me to leverage Gandiablasco’s exceptional craftsmanship, challenging ourselves to create technically ambitious yet aesthetically fitting pieces that meet the company’s mission and values.”
www.gandiablasco.com
2. Vincent Sheppard Akari
The Akari collection by Vincent Sheppard is characterised by delicate and airy silhouettes, fine lines and tactile twisted rope. The lightweight aluminium frame, finished in a dune white powder coating, creates a light and elegant structure that can enhance the feel of any outdoor setting. The rope detailing wraps around the frame in a way that complements its gentle curves, creating an inviting form that adds to an overall sense of lightness. Designed for effortless comfort, the quickdry cushions – available in various fabrics – are crafted to withstand the elements. Able to dry rapidly after a rainshower, they ensure that Akari is always ready to be enjoyed.
www.vincentsheppard.com
3. Palecek Capitola Outdoor
Palecek has expanded its Capitola line with the unveiling of a new outdoor seating range. Crafted with the same attention to detail, the new pieces feature a refined synthetic seagrass material that mimics the appearance of traditional bundled grass, paired with a twisted synthetic rope binding that evokes the charm of artisanal craftsmanship. With a rustic yet refined look, the Capitola Outdoor collection is built to withstand the elements while maintaining the timeless style of its indoor counterpart. Whether on a patio or by a pool, the range offers a blend of nature-inspired design and long-lasting performance for a refined outdoor retreat.
www.palecek.com
4. Janus et Cie Mattone
Janus et Cie has launched its first fully upholstered outdoor range, Mattone, complete with generous proportions and deep, inviting cushions. The modular lounge collection allows for a wide range of configuration possibilities, with its clean lines enabling smooth integration into both contemporary and more traditional spaces. The modular pieces are crafted with a refined aesthetic, yet engineered to resist the elements. The quick-drying covers further enhance versatility, available in two sophisticated, neutral hues – White Opal, a warm, inviting grey, and Shiitake, a monochromatic, flaxen beige – that complement and coordinate with a variety of colour palettes. www.janusetcie.com
1. Tribù Amanu
Tribù has unveiled Amanu, a new collection designed by Yabu Pushelberg. The range, designed to be timeless and transitional, places emphasis on comfort and sustainability. Drawing its name from the Amanu atoll in French Polynesia, the collection balances comfort with durability, and the contemporary with the classic. The dining and lounge chair feature intertwined Canax – a unique combination of natural hemp and synthetic fibres – elegantly woven around the supporting teak to give the impression that it is floating. The dining table meanwhile also sees reclaimed ceramic tiles resting upon elegant teak, creating a soft look yet sturdy feel. www.tribu.com
2. Point Curio
Patrick Norguet has designed a new collection for Point, inspired by the concept of ‘curiosities’. Aptly named Curio, the range is an exploration of art, geometry and history. “Curio is an invitation to discover the extraordinary in the everyday; each piece is intended as a tribute to curiosity and the unexpected beauty that comes from exploring new forms,” explains Norguet. Pieces feature a stylised aluminium frame, slim legs ending in a flared base, and a rope backrest that nestles the user. “Through Curio, I sought to create designs that combine technique, history and storytelling, while maintaining a focus on elegance and craftsmanship,” concludes the designer. www.point1920.com
3. Barlow Tyrie Cocoon
Cocoon is a contemporary deep seating collection envisioned by international design house Astheimer. Complete with design details including curved backs and arms, circular teak legs and hand-wound chalk-coloured olefin all-weather rope, the collection includes a range of seating options, from a sofa and armchair to an ottoman. Enhancing versatility, seat back and scatter cushions are available in various Sunbrella Rain fabric colours. Well-suited to the great outdoors, the fabrics are weather-, mould-, mildew-, fade- and UV-resistant. With the Cocoon collection, guests can recline comfortably in a range of outdoor and indoor hospitality settings. www.teak.com
4. Ethimo Boldini
Ethimo has presented a new take on Bold, its dining table inspired by megalithic architecture. Boldini, the latest addition to the company’s portfolio, maintains the character of the original design, but features different sizes and colours that highlight the sculptural spirit and craftsmanship of the range. The tabletops, available in three shapes, are created in Rosso Francia or Verde Guatemala marble or sand-coloured travertine, complete with a bright glossy finish that accentuates the natural veining in the materials. The glazed ceramic legs echo the colours and shiny effect of the tabletops, adding dynamism and cohesion to the overall design.
www.ethimo.com
1. Expormim Obi
Expormim has unveiled two new additions to Obi, an outdoor seating collection designed by Ludovica and Roberto Palomba. Inspired by the belt of the traditional Japanese kimono, the two new dining armchairs feature a high-resistance aluminium profile, with a backrest reminiscent of the tight belt found across the rest of the collection. One of the chairs features four slender, slightly coneshaped legs, while the other has a sled base to ensure further stability. Expormim has also tweaked the design of other Obi pieces, introducing a new textured band that is carefully sewn by hand and wider than the previous iteration, resulting in a more elegant aesthetic. www.expormim.com
2. Coco Wolf Zante
Coco Wolf is set to debut a new collection at Salone del Mobile. Inspired by the allure of the Greek isles, Zante marks the first collaboration between the company and designer Mathias de Ferm. “Zante beautifully captures our philosophy of ‘Reconnect with Nature’, blending British craftsmanship with cutting-edge design,” says James Lorimer, Managing Director at Coco Wolf. “It took us more than a year to develop this series – every spindle, material choice and finish was carefully considered to ensure a one-of-a-kind result that aligns with our sustainable ethos.” Handcrafted using marine-grade, quick-dry materials, the furnishings are water-, stain- and UV-resistant. www.cocowolf.co.uk
3. Manutti Ogado
Manutti’s Ogado collection, envisioned by Brent De Meulenaere, represents a fusion of nature and craftsmanship. Comprising three distinct table designs, each drawing on organic shapes and textures, the range draws inspiration from nature’s fluid lines. The Ogado organic dining table was created to serve as a centrepiece, seating up to 12 guests with an elongated design and flowing top. For more intimate settings, the Ogado round dining table comfortably seats up to six, featuring a smooth, circular top and a sculpted base that enhances its natural appeal. Lastly, the Ogado low dining table offers versatility with a lower profile, ideal for more relaxed gatherings.
www.manutti.com
4. Kettal Passage
The Passage chair by Kettal has been designed by Ronan Bouroullec to embody fluidity and versatility. Seamlessly moving from one place to another, it can be installed indoors or outdoors, in a café or on a balcony, and in an urban or natural setting. The chair features a soft aluminium structure, while the seat can be made from a single piece of extruded aluminium, or from wood, fabric, robe, webbing or straw, giving it a convenient versatility. Recylable and highly durable, the product also has a reduced carbon footprint. Kettal has been crafting outdoor furniture since 1966, partnering with a host of designers to bring its creative visions to life.
www.kettal.com
1. Leisure Plan Dedon
Leisure Plan is a UK-based supplier of outdoor furniture, working with brands Dedon, Ego Paris and Fischer Möbel. Dedon recently launched the Atolo collection, designed by Claudio Bellini. The range features a lounge chair, two-seat sofa and footstool – available in three colours and featuring intricate woven patterns. Dedon’s entire portfolio is available from Leisure Plan, the brand’s exclusive UK importer and distributor. Original design is at the forefront of Leisure Plan’s varied offering, with the company aiming to satisfy widespread demand for individuality and sustainability in both private and commercial outdoor living areas.
www.leisureplan.co.uk
2. Akula New Collections
Akula has launched six new outdoor furniture collections, named Chelsea, Wimbledon, Meridian, Richmond, Soho and Fulham (pictured). The new offerings are envisioned to bring flexibility to outdoor furniture design, with products ranging from padded sling structures to modular cushioned seating. With wide-spanning mix-and-match options, specifiers are able to select from Akula‘s varied finishes and configurations for a tailored look, while a new colour palette allows for maximised creativity. Each collection is manufactured from marine-grade materials for durability in all environments, enabling long-lasting comfort and style in all conditions.
www.akulaliving.com
3. Tuuci Marquesa Sun Lounge
Tuuci’s Marquesa Sun Lounge, designed by Dougan Clarke, offers outdoor seating in single or double formations. The pieces use Aluma-Forge Cold-Weld Construction – a proprietary furniture construction method by Tuuci, which permanently fuses corrosion-resistant stainless steel, polymer and aluminum into a durable, cold-welded joint. The joint is finished with a chamfered, stainless steel bezel and Tuuci’s authentic wood-grain AlumaTeak or solid powder-coated finishes, while the seats can be personalised with bespoke bezel, bar and button accents. Marquesa is completed by a Twin-T Cushion Lock system, which secures cushions firmly to the frame. www.tuuci.com
4. NOA Outdoor Living
At NOA, a vast experience park in Belgium, 25 companies have joined forces to create themed gardens within which visitors can explore the varied nature of outdoor spaces. Crafted with developers, architects and designers in mind, the 30,000m2 site comprises 12 pavilions that showcase the latest products and trends in outdoor living and garden design, including canopies, plantings, outdoor rugs and lighting. Brands on display range from Alpha Wellness, Coco Wolf and Cubic Outdoor Living, to Extremis, Limited Edition and Van den Berk, with each offering visitors wide-ranging inspiration to help shape future design plans.
www.noa-outdoor.com
Frida lounge chair
1. Indian Ocean Pimlico Club Love Seat
Outdoor specialist Indian Ocean has unveiled the Pimlico Club Love Seat, a new take on its existing Pimlico Club. Showcasing a sculptural silhouette with a high backrest, the piece unites handwoven all-weather rope with sustainably-sourced FSC teak and weather-resistant cushions. Be it nestled alongside the single Highback Chair on a sun-drenched terrace, positioned by a tranquil poolside or standing alone, the Love Seat is a stylish addition to any space. British company Indian Ocean has designed and crafted luxury outdoor furniture since 1990, working to high specifications as it introduces its products to locations across the globe.
www.indian-ocean.co.uk
2. Jardinico Caractère JCP.301
A new addition to Jardinico’s outdoor living offer, the Caractère JCP.301 LED umbrella fuses a sleek design with ambient lighting capabilities, designed to transform any outdoor space into a sophisticated retreat. Available in a 300x300cm size, the umbrella features integrated LED lighting that is discreetly embedded in its ribs. The lights, which are powered by solar energy, cast a warm and inviting glow as the sun sets, allowing for the enjoyment of outdoor spaces into the evening. Founded in 1999, Jardinico has long designed and manufactured high-end shade products, envisioned to facilitate both luxury and functionality in outdoor living.
www.jardinico.com
3. Fermob Yunos
Fermob is ushering in a new era with Yunos, its first solar floor lamp. Standing on a tripod base, the structure sees a luminaire perched 180cm above the ground, allowing for its rays to spread far over any outdoor setting. Designed with Hellenistic accents, the lamp features XXL solar panels that capture the sunlight and reflect its rays beyond dusk, pouring out light once the sun sets. Two temperature settings are available, with intensity also dimmable depending on the requirements of the space. French outdoor furniture designer and manufacturer Fermob offers a wide range of furniture and accessories envisioned to enhance the great outdoors.
www.fermob.com
4. B&B Italia Erica
B&B Italia is expanding its Erica collection, launched in 2017. Designed by Antonio Citterio, the range welcomes new seating, tables, coffee tables and finishes that maintain its refined character. “Within the newly extended Erica collection, I tried to find all the solutions to the different typologies of use of outdoor furniture: from the terrace to the swimming pool, up to the garden, inside private residences, or hotels,” says Citterio. “Locations where the product has different shapes and configurations: different modular seating systems, seats with particular shapes, sunbeds, tables and coffee tables, new design pieces that make Erica become a large, complete collection.”
www.bebitalia.com
Outdoor Fabrics
Take a look at the fabrics designed to bring added comfort and style to the great outdoors.
1. Nanimarquina Garden
Nanimarquina has unveiled Garden, a new outdoor rug collection designed to blend seamlessly with its surroundings. Made from recycled PET and coconut fibre – a natural and durable material – the collection highlights the harmony between nature and craftsmanship, offering an elegant solution that can be subtly integrated into any outdoor environment. The use of coconut fibre ensures resistance to moisture and sunlight, enhanced antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, and the ability to maintain shape and appearance despite wear overtime. Available in two sizes and three colours – natural, black and green – the range’s earthy tones and organic textures evoke the serenity of nature, creating an atmosphere of calm and connection with the outdoors. Nanimarquina has been designing and crafting rugs since 1987, with all manufacturing carried out in India and Pakistan by local artisans. The company collaborates with a range of designers to ensure diversity in textures, materials and shapes across its product range. www.nanimarquina.com
2. Vagenas Hozho
Vagenas has been supplying fabrics, curtains, wallpapers and carpet collections from a range of companies since the 1960s. One such brand is Casamance, which recently launched a new outdoor fabric collection named Hozho. Inspired by the traditions of the Navajo, an Indigenous people of the Southwestern United States, the range pays homage to a way of living that prioritises peace, harmony and balance – visually symbolised through carefully woven patterns. The collection is available in a selection of four colourways, envisioned to integrate within a range of outdoor settings. With excellent colourfastness when exposed to light, good resistance to seawater and mildew, and quickdrying properties, the fabrics are well-suited to life in the open air.
www.vagenas.eu
3. Richloom Contract Perform 2
Perform 2, a new outdoor fabric offer from Richloom Contract, blends timeless elegance with durability. The collection features an array of fabrics designed to withstand the elements, whilst also providing comfort and style. Able to integrate smoothly into poolside nooks, relaxing terraces or dynamic restaurants, the new offer includes performance velvets, ethereal sheers and bold prints. The collection comprises 16 patterns and 42 colours, each inspired by one of three different trends: Tropical Chic, which embraces the vibrant spirit of the tropics, Desert Oasis, envisioned to facilitate a soothing sanctuary, and Verdant Harbour (pictured), which features a tranquil palette of turquoise greens and oceanic blues that evokes the relaxing ambience of the coast.
www.richloomcontract.com
SPOTLIGHT
ART
From commissioning to curating, specialist consultants are elevating hospitality spaces through impactful art.
SMC Art
Aroya
SMC Art is a London-based art consultancy offering tailored services and curating thoughtful, authentic and bespoke artwork collections across the globe. SMC Art has worked with Aroya Cruises on the complete art collection onboard the cruise line’s inaugural vessel, Aroya. Comprising over 2,480 unique pieces, the diverse collection draws inspiration from Cruise Saudi’s Remarkably Arabian ethos. From hand-carved paper reliefs referencing traditional Najd village stucco to kinetic installations based on live tidal data of the Red Sea, the vision was to create a collection which showcases traditional craft practices and stories, reinterpreted through a new lens. The collection reflects the rich culture and varied vistas of the Kingdom in unexpected ways, reinforcing the vessel’s contemporary approach to Arabian design. The large-scale paper carvings pictured, meticulously designed by SMC Art’s own in-house creative designer and realised by Anna Maria Bellmann, adorn the public lift lobbies. The Irth restaurant meanwhile, displays an art collection curated in collaboration with the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Culture. The narrative developed celebrates the Saudi Arabian produce on the menu and honours the agricultural practices of the land. Artisans from different regions were commissioned to portray artworks of different mediums that reflect unique agricultural themes, from coffee and date production to olive oil fields and honey hives located in the Asir Mountains. www.smc-artconsultancy.com
Artiq Corinthia London
With origins dating back to 1885, Corinthia London offers an unrivalled blend of location, service and style. As part of an extensive refurbishment – designed by G.A. Group and managed by Argenta Projects – international art agency Artiq was appointed to develop a curatorial strategy that embodies the playful, colourful and creative spirit integral to the iconic hotel. A bespoke collection celebrating the property’s rich history has been seamlessly integrated into the interiors, accessories and architecture, creating a cohesive and evocative aesthetic. Reinterpreting the heritage through the lens of emerging British artists, contemporary works are thoughtfully paired with archival imagery and illustrations, sourced through a partnership between Artiq and the Victoria & Albert Museum archives, bridging the past and present. Together, the art and interiors enhance Corinthia London’s timeless elegance, while infusing it with the cultural prestige of the city. www.artiq.co
Saatchi Art W Union Square
The reimagining of W Union Square in New York marks a milestone in the ongoing evolution of the Marriott brand, and upon completion in 2025, will serve as the new global flagship. The renovation also marks a milestone in W Hotels’ 25-year relationship with Rockwell Group, which first designed the property in 2000. To bring new life to the interiors, Rockwell Group worked with Saatchi Art’s Chief Curator and Vice President of Art Advisory Rebecca Wilson, to provide an art collection for guestrooms, suites and the public areas. The artworks were all selected to celebrate New York’s cultural richness in music, fashion and art, and to evoke a sense of the city’s famously dynamic spirit. In the guestrooms, there are bespoke limited-edition prints by Stephen J. Powers, also known as ESPO (Exterior Surface Painting Outreach), who became known in the 1990s for his thematic graffiti pieces painted throughout the city. There are strong street art roots in the works of New York-based Carmine Santaniello too, whose collages hang in the corridors alongside paintings by Susan Washington from her Subway Sonnets series. Saatchi also commissioned a new film by Oscar Zabala for the Living Room, which captures the energy, creativity and diversity of the Big Apple. www.saatchiart.com/trade
Artstory Miiro Borneta
Artstory appointed its Spanish team in Valencia to build the art collection for Miiro Borneta, using its regional knowledge to engage with the creative community, ensuring each commissioned piece authentically reflects the spirit of the bohemian El Born district. Nestled amongst 19th-century apartments near Ciutadella Park, Miiro Borneta cultivates a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. The choice of artists reflects this intention, with paintings and sculptures that are discovered naturally by guests and locals as they move through the Thurstan-designed interiors. Celebrating craftsmanship, the collection features original paintings by Chidy Wayne and Alicia Gimeno, amongst other local talents. This approach continues through the guestrooms with a series of wall-mounted plates by ceramicists Zaira. Artist commissions were collated together with rare finds from neighbourhood antique shops and flea markets, achieving a sustainable and timeless outcome. “Borneta is a reflection of Barcelona’s creative soul and working with Artstory was key to bringing this vision to life,” says Marina Riess, General Manager at Miiro Borneta. “Their team not only understood but elevated our Mediterranean aesthetic and deep connection to El Born. Every piece and artistic detail adds authenticity and character, turning the hotel into a sensory experience where art and hospitality blend seamlessly.” www.artstory.co.uk
Atlas Gallery Liaigre London
Atlas Gallery collaborates on luxury interior projects around the world, taking art curation to another level with fine art photography and art installations, drawn from its extensive archives. Together with bespoke framers Beyond Print, the studio combines its efforts, skills and expertise to provide works of art that bring interior spaces to life, whether small private apartments, large scale commercial projects or luxury hotels worldwide. Working with interior designers and architects, the gallery aims to achieve a synergy with the building’s architecture, to craft unique spaces and memorable experiences, with an emphasis on vintage and contemporary fine art photography. Most recently, the studio was invited to showcase a selection of artists at the Liaigre showroom in London, alongside a new furniture collection. For loans, acquisitions or exhibitions, Atlas Gallery also offers a professional art advisory service with bespoke solutions. www.atlasgallery.com
SPECIFIER
Original BTC AWH Wall Light
Original BTC has introduced its new AWH range of bathroom wall lights, expanding the renowned Davey Lighting collection. Inspired by the striking windows of London’s Natural History Museum, the design artfully pairs sleek metalwork with a stepped glass diffuser, hand-pressed in the brand’s Oxfordbased factory. The IP44-rated fixture features a refined metal body housing a dimmable LED light source, delivering both style and dependable illumination. Available in polished brass, chrome and antique brass, the AWH range exemplifies Original BTC’s commitment to craftsmanship and timeless design. www.originalbtc.com
Hästens
Jack Ryde 100 Year Anniversary
Limited Edition 2000T
Honouring a century of craftsmanship and innovation, bed manufacturer Hästens has introduced the Jack Ryde 100 Year Anniversary, Limited Edition 2000T in tribute to Jack Ryde, the visionary behind the brand’s iconic blue check design.
Originally launched in 1978, the Hästens 2000T redefined sleep luxury as ‘The Bed of Tomorrow’. It was also the first bed from Hästens to introduce the blue check pattern, which debuted at Stockholm Furniture Fair and has since become an enduring symbol of both the brand’s dedication to quality and Swedish design excellence. Ryde’s vision not only challenged industry convention but also redefined both the aesthetic and functional standards of the sleep industry. Evolving from this legacy, the Hästens 2000T has consistently set the benchmark in sleep innovation. Handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, every layer of the bed is designed to optimise body contouring and deliver pressure relief. The state-of-the-art system provides independent spring movement, ensuring
support, comfort and enhanced airflow for a refreshing sleep experience. This balance of tradition, craftsmanship and innovation solidifies the Hästens 2000T as the gold standard for restorative sleep. With only 2,000 pieces available worldwide, the limited edition bed represents the zenith of design precision and cutting-edge engineering, seamlessly fusing form and function. Blue saddle leather corner guards and matching leather lifting handles lend a refined and cohesive aesthetic while embodying timeless elegance and practical sophistication. The middle mattress, adorned with a hand-embroidered signature, exemplifies Hästens’ celebrated artistry and meticulous craftsmanship. Bronze accents and a distinctive signature plate on the base further elevate the design, serving as a striking tribute to Ryde’s enduring legacy and visionary spirit.
Since 1852, Swedish company Hästens has been on a mission to make the world happier, more peaceful and loving by delivering extraordinary sleep experiences. www.hastens.com
A unique outdoor experience concept in Belgium
Discover a unique outdoor living experience like nowhere else. More than 25 high-end outdoor brands show their products in no less than 12 atmospheric gardens. Architects, designers, planners, but also individuals will get inspired by the latest innovations and trends in outdoor living. Come and discover NOA!
A natural evolution of Wall & Decò’s Wet System, the Aquabout Wet System is billed as the first completely waterproof wallpaper dedicated to wet areas in direct contact with water, such as bathrooms, showers, kitchens, swimming pool areas and spas. It provides total water tightness and excellent crackresistance, as well as high washability performance, resistance to detergents, impacts and scratches, and compliance with fire-safety regulations. In addition to simplifying the installation process, the new water-based resins ensure a lower environmental impact, making this solution not only highperforming but also more sustainable. The 2024-2 collection is a celebration of vintage that transcends the simple concept of ‘old’ to embrace an essence of timeless style. www.wallanddeco.com
Humble Air
Humble Air is a sleek, space-saving table lamp that blends functionality with style to bring ambiance to interiors such as restaurants and bars. Subtle yet striking, the dimmable luminaire has four settings, including a boost mode that instantly doubles its brightness when needed, making it suitable for menu reading or creating a vibrant atmosphere. Designed for an effortless experience, Humble Air is completely wireless, eliminating tangled cords and allowing flexible placement. Its group remote control feature ensures quick ambiance adjustments, while the long-lasting battery (up to 140 hours) powers multiple shifts without recharging. Plus, with an IP65 waterproof rating, Humble Air is just as reliable in outdoor settings.
www.humblelights.com
Wall & Decò Aquabout Wet System
Decor Walther
Kristall – Capri Blue
Decor Walther has introduced the newest shade of the Kristall collection – Capri Blue. Sleek, sophisticated and full of personality, this vibrant hue reimagines the classic design with a modern twist that commands attention. Inspired by the vivid waters of Capri and the effortless charm of the Italian Riviera, the new colourway brings the essence of the Mediterranean into any environment. The collection of accessories evokes a sense of tranquility while making a bold statement, seamlessly complementing both contemporary and classic interiors.
www.decor-walther.com
Tiger Fresh Bio Leather
Made in Italy using eco-friendly technology, Fresh is a bio-based, compostable leather with no metals or toxins and a nearly-zero carbon footprint. Articles tanned with Fresh are certified as more than 92% biodegradable and do not release any phytotoxins or toxic chemicals into the environment. Unlike vegan leather, which is derived from artificial, non-renewable resources such as plastic, Fresh Bio Leather is premium-grade cowhide tanned with natural ingredients like fruits and plants. It offers the same performance and tear-resistant characteristics as conventional leather, yet can be composted at the end of its usage cycle. This means that leather, a raw material derived from nature, can now return to nature through sustainable techniques to safeguard health and the environment without sacrificing quality or durability.
www.tigerleather.com
Trevira CS 45th Anniversary
Established in 1980, Trevira CS is a pioneer of permanently flameretardant textiles that meet all essential fire protection standards without a chemical finish, and whose properties neither wash out nor are lost through ageing or use. In fact, fabrics made from specially produced flame-retardant polyester can only be labeled as Trevira CS after passing a brand test. Trevira CS recently celebrated its 45th anniversary at Heimtextil in Frankfurt with an exhibition stand featuring a special area dedicated to the milestone with samples, brochures, pictures and anecdotes on display. In its anniversary year, Trevira CS is focusing on permanent flame retardancy, as well as the brand’s sustainability measures: preconsumer recycling; the Trevira CS take-back concept with ALTEX Textil-Recycling; developments from chemically recycled raw material; and the Trevira CS Fabric Competition 2025 submissions. www.trevira.de/en
Tece
TeceNeo Shower Toilet
The TeceNeo shower toilet has won the Excellent Product Design category of the German Design Awards 2025. The shower toilet achieves thorough cleansing with a voluminous shower stream using fresh water directly from the pipe. With buttons mounted on the side of the ceramic, users can easily adjust the water volume and temperature by simply turning them, making it easier to cater to the varied needs of individual users. Without any proneto-failure electronics, TeceNeo offers a sustainable solution for modern bathrooms. The shower toilet also impresses in terms of design – with high-quality ceramics, an elegant form and without any additional control elements, it integrates well into any modern bathroom environment. “We are very pleased about this award,” says Kira Felchner, Product Manager at Tece, on the win. “It is a great recognition of our work and motivates us to continue developing products that are closely aligned with the needs of our clients in the hospitality sector and beyond.”
www.tece.de
Vispring Hotel Tiara Collection
Vispring is a leading luxury British bed manufacturer, responsible for introducing the pocket sprung mattress in 1901. With a rich heritage, Vispring mattresses can be found in the world’s most prestigious hotels, from The Dorchester in London to LA’s Beverly Hills Hotel. Since 1970, Vispring has been located in Plymouth, where it has set the standard for bespoke, handcrafted beds. Each mattress is made using natural materials including British wool, real Shetland wool, cashmere, horsehair and silk. Combining technical expertise with craftsmanship reminiscent of the finest tailoring, Vispring remains an international benchmark for comfort and sophistication, while also respecting traditional methods. The Hotel Tiara Collection encompasses the brand’s bespoke offering for luxury hotels worldwide, whilst reaffirming its commitment to delivering unrivalled quality, so every hotel stay feels like home.
www.vispring.com
Forest Group CRS Design Collection
The CRS Design Collection by Forest Group redefines curtain rods with sleek square and rectangular designs, suitable for adding a modern touch to interiors. With a refined, minimalist aesthetic, these rods complement interiors from Scandinavian simplicity to industrial chic. Flexible wall- and ceiling-mounted options allow for a custom look, whether bold or subtle. Available in five trendled shades – antique, taupe, stone grey, white and black – the collection blends seamlessly into any décor. The white and black finishes feature a stylish matte texture for added sophistication. Ideal for hospitality spaces, the CRS Design Collection offers the perfect balance of style and function.
www.forestgroup.com
Bellino Fine Linens Como
Como is a sustainable bedding collection from Bellino Fine Linens, made from 65% cotton and 35% Tencel and finished with a plain hem. Not only is the 300 thread count linen luxurious and soft, it is also anti-microbial, moisture wicking, breathable and engineered to withstand commercial laundries, making it suitable for hotels. Tencel fibres are renowned for their environmentally responsible, closed-loop production process which transforms wood pulp into fibre with low ecological impact. In fact, 99% of the water and solvents used are recycled. The Tencel production facilities are certified according to the European Ecolabel requirements for textile production – a label only awarded to products which have a significantly lower environmental impact throughout their lifecycle. The fibres are also USDA-certified as compostable and biodegradable, meaning they can fully revert back to nature. www.bellinofinelinens.com
ADVERTISING INDEX ISSUE 119
The Pursuit of Feeling
Black Tomato launches an AI-powered search engine that generates emotiondriven recommendations, from safaris to hotel stays.
Hoteliers and designers are on a never-ending mission to foster an emotional connection with guests – after all, that’s what makes a stay all the more memorable. Memorable experiences are a top priority for travellers too, and in recognition of this, Black Tomato has launched The Pursuit of Feeling, an AI-powered platform that combines the company’s two decades of travel planning expertise with cutting-edge technology.
The service encourages travellers to approach adventure through an emotional lens, inviting them to input their desires into the Feelings Engine, which then harnesses swathes of information to generate emotion-driven recommendations. The resulting tailored trips are based on the emotions they evoke, set around the key pillars of Freedom, Distraction, Revitalised, Challenged and Contentment.
To feel challenged, for example, it suggests a trip to Greenland, navigating icebergs and foraging for food in the wilderness, before a stay at the tented Saqqaq Camp overlooking Disko Bay. Alternatively, a trip to India can conjure feelings of revitalisation, with an itinerary including pilgrimages to ancient temples, meditation on sacred riverbanks and chanting in the garden of Buddha, before retiring to holistic wellness retreat Ananda in the Himalayas.
“It’s a long-held insight from our clients that they may not know where they want to go but always know how they want to feel,” explains co-founder Tom Marchant. “The Feelings Engine is a natural extension of this philosophy, creating an emotionally-focused approach to travel planning that combines the best of human expertise and insight with leading technology.”
