Sleeper - Issue 87

HOSPITALITY EXPERIENCE & DESIGN ISSUE 87 WWW.SLEEPERMAGAZINE.COM

EUPHORIA RETREAT – MYSTRAS • THE AUDO – COPENHAGEN • ASBURY OCEAN CLUB – NEW JERSEY

Featured lights: Fold Wall

19 - 20 November, 2019 | Stand D90

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CONTENTS ISSUE 87

058

067

HOTEL REVIEWS Euphoria Retreat

058

The Audo

067

Mystras

Copenhagen

Can Bordoy Grand House & Garden 072 Palma 122

Asbury Ocean Club

079

Selina NQ1

087

New Jersey Manchester

Alex 093 Lake Zurich

Savoy Palace Funchal

The Stratford Hotel 072

London

098 107

Sinner 115 Paris

Finca Serena

122

Six Senses Krabey Island

128

Mallorca

Cambodia

Four Seasons Astir Palace 135 Athens

003

xxx

CONTENTS ISSUE 87

FEATURES

107

Meeting... Christoph Hoffmann

036

The Lobby

047

Healthcare Hotels

167

Company Profile... BECK Interiors

174

The 25hours boss and recipient of AHEAD Europe 2019’s Outstanding Contribution award talks collaboration and creating uniqueness.

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

Sleeper and The Manser Practice welcome a group of healthcare and hotel professionals to a roundtable discussion exploring the concept of patient hotels.

Celebrating its 25th year of business throughout 2019, fit-out specialist BECK Interiors has helped facilitate the visions of international brands and maverick hoteliers alike.

036

115

DEPARTMENTS Check-In 020 Drawing Board

022

Business Centre

142

Events 155 Fabrics, Wallcoverings & Surfaces

177

Beds, Bedding & Mattresses

191

Specifier 200 098

004

177

Check-Out

226

NUANCES

by Patricia Urquiola www.gan-rugs.com

201911_sleeper_GAN.indd 2

13/09/2019 11:26:43

Cala Collection by Doshi Levien H Pavilion by Kettal Studio

HEAD OFFICE KETTAL / CONTRACT BARCELONA: Aragรณn 316, 08009 Barcelona, Spain. T. (34) 93 487 90 90 SHOWROOMS KETTAL BARCELONA - LONDON - MARBELLA - MIAMI - NEW YORK - PARIS LONDON: 567 Kings Road SW6 2 EB. T. (44) 20 7371 5170

VISIT RH.COM/CO N T R ACT TO L EA R N MO RE.

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

LEGENDARY HOTEL MERCURE BEDROOM PARIS – FRANCE Philipp Watts.

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14/05/2019 17:06:15

WELCOME

ON THE COVER Euphoria Retreat

Hybrid Futures e’re often told that hotels are no longer just places

W

Retail and hospitality are merging too. Restoration

for sleeping, but pinning down definitive function in

Hardware’s planned guesthouse over the road from its six-

an industry so fluid is proving increasingly difficult.

level New York gallery will seek to blend luxury hospitality

Hybridisation is nothing new – the blurring of lobbies with

and lifestyle retail. Copenhagen’s newly launched Audo,

bars, cafés, offices and meeting rooms into an amorphous

meanwhile – reviewed in these pages – acts at once as hotel,

‘third space’ has been underway since the early 00s – but

design library, co-working space and concept store, following

as this decade rolls towards its end we have seen the remit

in the footsteps of other like-minded properties that challenge

widened. Hotels no longer bring together just concepts, ideas

their guests to discover their own preferred use.

and spaces, but entire sectors too.

In all these instances, hotels are the foundation from which

On October 16, Sleeper headed to London’s Home House to

new genres of built space are being pioneered. After all, an

host a roundtable discussion in collaboration with architecture

expertise in looking after people and keeping them engaged

studio The Manser Practice, exploring the intersection of

and happy is the crux of any sector, emergent or otherwise.

healthcare and hospitality, particularly in so-called patient

The idea that our industry has the power to generate

hotels – facilities popular across Scandinavia that fuse the

innovations in adaptability will be under the microscope at

traditional hotel offer with the world of medical care, providing

November’s Sleep & Eat, where a guiding theme of Social

beds for those that do not require immediate or urgent surgery

FlexAbility will see the programme investigating the ways in

but must nonetheless stay in close proximity to a hospital.

which hotels are not so much evolving beyond recognition

Working in tandem with healthcare institutions to improve

but branching out in preparation for a world where being one

and enhance areas of treatment, cost and efficiency, patient

thing and one thing only is no longer enough.

hotels join a melting pot of new project types being created to

As always, The Sleeper Bar will sit at the show’s heart,

serve markets beyond the expected demographics of age, class

with this year’s iteration designed by Michaelis Boyd to

and taste. Above all, the hotel industry is positioning itself as

bring together ideas of social interaction, sustainability and

a particularly effective incubator for crossover ideas that go

community. And as always, we’ll be around to talk all things

on to gain footholds in the wider market, experimenting with

hotel design – hybrid or otherwise. Come and say hello, and

these amalgamations to widen the appeal.

grab your copy of Sleeper 87.

New York’s Equinox Hotel, for instance, brings fitness facilities, previously the preserve of the gymnasium, into the fold. Lanserhof Lans in Austria dedicates itself to preventative medical treatment. The Student Hotel splits efforts between typical guests and campus populations. These are less hotels with elements of different sectors present than they are hotels split evenly between traditional hospitality function and an entirely separate industry.

Kristofer Thomas • Assistant Editor

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C R E AT E A S E N S E OF DRAMA W HOTEL M USCAT, O M A N

· P4 9 TH A I L A ND A ND ROCK W ELL SPA I N ·

GUEST BOOK

© Ed Reeve

© Nick Bayntun

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162

079

093

079 Anda Andrei

093 Gordon Campbell Gray

098 Nini Andrade Silva

162 Michaelis Boyd

Having spent 30 years as the creative force behind Morgans Hotel Group and later the Ian Schrager Company, Anda Andrei has recently set up her own design studio, continuing to put her indelible mark on noteworthy projects. Her latest venture takes her to New Jersey, where she served as Creative Lead and Design Director for iStar’s Asbury Park project – the multibillion-dollar revitalisation and redevelopment scheme anchored by Asbury Ocean Club, a 54-key beachfront property operated by Salt Hotels.

Founder of Campbell Gray Hotels, Gordon Campbell Gray has spent the past 15 years building a portfolio of luxurious boutique hotels, bringing his love for contemporary art and sculpture to the likes of Le Gray in Beirut and The Merchant House in Manama, Bahrain. His latest opening – Alex, on the shores of Lake Zürich – captures the spirit of the destination and sees the interiors take a different direction, with a villa on the lake concept inspired by the calming serenity of its surroundings.

Born in Funchal, Madeira, Nini Andrade Silva has studied and worked in London, Paris and New York, however her heart ultimately lies in Portugal, where she has designed a number of hotels including Villa Foz Hotel & Spa in Porto and Furnas Boutique Hotel Thermal & Spa in the Azores.

Andrade Silva was also the creative force behind Saccharum, and has teamed up with local operator Savoy Signature once again for the design of Savoy Palace, a 352-key resort that celebrates the beauty of Madeira.

“Working primarily in timber, our bar is a study in sustainability; investigating the afterlife of the materials through scale, layering, adaptability and recycling,” say Alex Michaelis and Tim Boyd of their Sleeper Bar design concept at Sleep & Eat. “This has led us to create a space that will cater to all walks of life, adjusting to the needs of each individual, and making the bar a rich experience for each visitor.” The bar will be open throughout the duration of the event, taking place at London Olympia from 19-20 November.

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FRONT DESK @SleeperMagazine

EDITORIAL

DESIGN

AHEAD

Editor-in-Chief Matt Turner

Design Manager David Bell

Global Sponsorship Lorraine Jack

Production Zoe Willcox

FINANCE

m.turner@mondiale.co.uk

Managing Editor Catherine Martin

c.martin@mondiale.co.uk

Assistant Editor Kristofer Thomas

k.thomas@mondiale.co.uk

Assistant Editor Ben Thomas

b.thomas@mondiale.co.uk

Editorial Assistant Donna Salek

d.salek@mondiale.co.uk

Editor-at-Large Guy Dittrich ADVERTISING

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

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

Advertising Sales Charlotte Gowing

d.bell@mondiale.co.uk

z.willcox@mondiale.co.uk

Production Sonam Diki

s.diki@mondiale.co.uk

l.jack@mondiale.co.uk

Finance Director Amanda Giles

a.giles@mondiale.co.uk

Group Credit Controller Lynette Levi

EVENTS & MARKETING

l.levi@mondiale.co.uk

Brand Director Amy Wright

Accounts Assistant Kerry Mountney

Events Manager Lela Keighley

Junior Accounts Assistant Idaira Canellas Gonzalez

a.wright@mondiale.co.uk

l.keighley@mondiale.co.uk

PORTFOLIO

k.mountney@mondiale.co.uk

idaira.c.gonzalez@mondiale.co.uk

Senior Events & Marketing Executive Millie Allegro m.allegro@mondiale.co.uk

Data & Circulation Co-ordinator Hayley Redston

CORPORATE POWERED BY

Chairman Damian Walsh

h.redston@mondiale.co.uk

Subscriptions

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

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Four Seasons, Megève – Mood Clubchair by Studio Segers

Living the good life outside.

Love it, live it, share it. www.tribu.com

xxx

© Gavin Green

000

CHECK-IN

Fabio Ongarato and Ronnen Goren After taking home the AHEAD Global prize for their otherworldly visual identity at Australia’s Jackalope Hotel, Studio Ongarato’s founders head for a fantasy break with the stars at a secluded clifftop house.

Where are you?

understanding of the importance of time and

Who are you dining with this evening?

The Isle of Capri, at Casa Malparte on the

place in creating memorable experiences; the

Vincent Cassel, Lea Seydoux and Luca

eastern side of the island. The place is totally

perfectly edited combination.

Guadagnino; the actors and director planning to remake Goddard’s 1963 film Le Mépris.

secluded, and accessible only by boat. From the base of the cliffs you must climb 99 steps

Is there anything you would like waiting for

to reach the otherwise inaccessible Pompeian

you in your room?

Who’s manning the stoves?

Red house. The walk takes half-an-hour over

A 1951 Chicago Martini, mixed by Jason Williams

Chef Loniel Beccat – we recently ate at his

private property, traversing the island.

from Proof & Co. The glass is washed with

restaurant L’Esquisse in Tokyo whilst working

Cointreau, and finished with an anchovy-

on the new Four Seasons Otemachi. Food was

How did you get there?

stuffed olive. If anyone could re-engineer this

artfully deployed with poetic skill; an amalgam

By speedboat of course. The original Riva

rare classic, he can.

of French technique with Japanese reverence of seasonality reflected through the philosophy of

Aquarama; nothing less.

Who are you sharing your room with?

Who is there on arrival?

No-one. The one thing we value most is an

Marella Agnelli, doyenne of high society, an art

amazing bed and deep undisturbed sleep.

Kaiseki, which makes his food totally unique.

What’s on the menu?

Amazing Italian seafood reinterpreted through

collector and museum founder who married Gianni Agnelli. Many years in social life

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

Lionel’s lens: Bottarga Squid, Spotted Shrimp

qualifies her as the ultimate ambassador, host,

It is a private villa that exudes place-based

Tonkabean, Pear and Ricotta; and the meal is

connoisseur and tastemaker. She was renowned

luxury. The remote location and picturesque

finished with Grapefruit and Olive Parfait, which

for keeping the conversation fast paced and full

setting are priceless. Design and nature play a

is sublime.

of anecdotes.

huge role in its allure, framing the azure blue Mediterranean with its craggy rock formations.

Would you like something to drink with that?

Who is at the concierge desk?

The furnishings are modest, yet everything

Gacomo Conterno Monfortino, Barolo Riserva

David Prior, fellow Australian and founder

selected is exquisite, thoughtful and deliberate.

DOCG from 1970, one of the greatest Monfortinos

of Prior Travel Club. The foundation of his

Either custom built or collected with a keen eye,

ever made.

philosophy and business success has been the

it is all about comfort and tactility.

What’s on your nightstand at bedtime?

NOTABLE HOTEL PROJECTS Jackalope Hotel, Melbourne; QT Melbourne; W Shanghai; W Brisbane; Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi www.studioongarato.com.au

Who designed it?

The Joris-Karl Huysmans novel Against Nature.

It was first designed by Italian rationalist

Tracing the last scion of an aristocratic family,

Adalberto Libera in 1937, but the architect was

he tries to retreat into an ideal artistic world

dismissed and the completion of the house was

of his own creation. The narrative is almost

taken over by Curzio Mallaparte with a local

entirely a catalogue of neurotic aesthetic

stonemason; describing it as a solitary house

tastes, musings on literature, painting, religion

on the edge of the world reserved for free spirits

and sensory experiences; a story of an ailing

and strong men. Remodelled today, the villa has

aesthete that retreats to an isolated villa where

been refurnished by Axel Vervoordt.

he indulges his taste for luxury and excess.

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Citicape House LONDON

Real estate developer and investor Dominvs Group has submitted a planning application for the redevelopment of London’s Citicape House, with plans to include a hotel alongside a publicly accessible viewing gallery, a rooftop restaurant and bar, and dedicated co-working space for the growing freelance community.

Designed by London-based architecture practice Sheppard Robson, the proposal would see a 382-key hotel designed to reflect and respond to the context of the new Culture Mile development – an initiative headed by The City of London to serve and enhance the UK capital’s creative core.

Jay Ahluwalia, Dominvs Group Director, comments: “Dominvs Group is incredibly proud of our proposals for 61-65 Holborn Viaduct which aim to play a major role in the regeneration of the Smithfield area. With the City of London’s vision for the area and the creation of the Culture Mile, we feel this project will support and enhance the overall ambition for this exciting, new cultural destination as the creative heart of the Square Mile.”

Intended as a scene-setting gateway structure to the Holborn portion of the Culture Mile, the development would further see the establishment of Europe’s largest living green wall, with 400,000 plants spanning the entire 40,000ft2 façade. The move would reportedly provide the city with seven tonnes of fresh air each year, whilst in turn extracting nine tonnes of carbon dioxide.

Dan Burr, Partner at Sheppard Robson, explains: “On a site so prominent, there was a real drive to inject some fresh perspectives on how to grapple with some on London’s most urgent environmental issues, including air quality and noise and dust pollution. Rather than having an isolated patch of greenery, we felt that an immersive and integrated approach would have the biggest impact on the local environmental conditions and making a better and more liveable city, as well as articulating a clear architectural statement.”

DRAWING BOARD

Ace Hotel SYDNEY

Ace Hotel Group has announced plans for its debut property in Australia, with Ace Hotel Sydney slated to open in the inner city suburb of Surry Hills in 2021. The brand’s in-house design studio Atelier Ace will work with architects Bates Smart and developer Golden Age to instil the 264-key project with influences drawn from the city’s rich history and surrounding flora.

Built around Tyne House – one of Sydney’s original brick structures – the hotel will occupy a part-historic, part-newbuild property, bringing with it features including a ground floor lobby bar, restaurant and café, as well as rooftop drinking and dining venues.

“Opening an Ace Hotel in Sydney, and on our fourth continent, is a project that aligns with our Pacific roots and love of food, art, architecture, design and cultural creatives – things that are in rich abundance in our new Surry Hills neighbourhood,” comments Kelly Sawdon, Ace Hotel Group Partner and Chief Brand Officer.

“We’re excited to partner with Golden Age, whose vision and sense of collaboration is in kinship with Ace, to build a central gathering place for locals and travellers alike.”

The news follows a busy 20th year for the Ace brand, launching two new hotel brands in Maison de la Lux – a luxury guest house in New Orleans – and Sister City, a hotel in New York’s Bowery neighbourhood inspired by simplistic, minimalist beauty.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Golden Age Operator: Ace Hotel Group Architecture: Bates Smart Interior Design: Atelier Ace www.acehotel.com

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WHEN

GERMAN HOSPITALITY TRADITION Since 1985

www.aliseo.de

M IR R O R S

MATTER

DRAWING BOARD

Armed Forces Officers Club & Hotel ABU DHABI

Newly launched Abu Dhabi-based hospitality

Repositioning the property as a brand

brand Al Turath has revealed design details for

flagship, Roar’s interiors will look to the

its reimagining of the Armed Forces Officers

translation of the Arabic Al Turath – heritage –

Club & Hotel (AFOCH).

for inspiration, incorporating local traditions,

Part of a comprehensive refurbishment that

culture and identity. A new material palette

began in early 2019, the brand has appointed

forming the foundation of the scheme includes

Dubai-based studio Roar – formerly Pallavi

base textures of polished concrete and silver

Dean Interiors – to provide design direction

vein-cut travertine, along with contemporary

and oversee major interventions, whilst

elements clad in aluminium foam panels, woven

retaining the spirit of Roger Tallibert’s original

palm leaf mats and camel leather.

concrete shell – a winged structure echoing Eero Saarinen’s iconic TWA Terminal.

026

The Officer’s Club – a series of multi-purpose events spaces – retains its layout, whilst gaining

Initially opening in 1997, the 75-acre plot

an installation of bird-like structures in a nod

was created as a multi-purpose facility to

to the building’s form. The main entrance,

bring together the UAE’s armed forces and

meanwhile, will see the addition of two oversized

wider Emirati society. Since its conversion to a

abstract structures based on the work of

hotel and resort in the early 2000s, the property

sculptor Richard Sweeney, and guestrooms will

has welcomed guests including dignitaries,

be decorated with a palette of polished concrete,

presidents, ambassadors and heads of state, as

grey stucco, woven headboards, bespoke tables

well as serving as a hub for the region’s growing

in Burma teak marble, and traditional talli and

portfolio of sporting events.

Sadu weaves.

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25/10/2019 14:48:35

DRAWING BOARD

Asai

Thai hospitality company Dusit International

introducing travellers and locals alike to our

has signed a long-term lease agreement with

vibrant neighbourhood with its endless array

BANGKOK

I’m Chinatown to develop and operate a 224-

of hidden delights.”

key Asai-branded hotel in Bangkok.

Slated for a Q1 2020 opening, Asai Bangkok

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: I’m Chinatown Operator: Dusit International www.asaihotels.com

028

Supported by four brand pillars of thoughtful essentials,

common

ground,

authentic

Chinatown will mark the first property to

connections and a sustainable ecosystem, the

open under Dusit’s millennial-focused Asai

first Asai property will fuse Thai and Chinese

banner, and is set adjacent to the bustling

aesthetics throughout. Emphasising communal

Yaowarat Road, a district noted for its celebrated

spaces and social interaction, a fourth floor hub

gastronomic scene.

incorporates a lounge, bar, botanical courtyard,

“Each ASAI hotel is being carefully designed

and co-working space, whilst the wider hotel

to reflect the fabric of the neighbourhood and

will further feature a fitness centre, retail space

appeal to the needs and expectations of today’s

and pop-up restaurant in collaboration with

generation of travellers and consumers who

Paolo Vitaletti and Jarrett Wrisley – the chefs

are constantly on the lookout for authentic,

behind Bangkok’s celebrated Appia, Peppina

local experiences,” explains Siradej Donavanik,

and Soul Food Mahanakorn venues.

Managing Director, Asai Hotels. “Asai Bangkok

Asai Hotels currently has five properties in

Chinatown’s distinctive offerings, fascinating

the pipeline, including three projects in the

surrounds, and excellent location near the

Philippines, another in Myanmar, and a second

new underground station make it a strong

Bangkok location, all expected to open from

debut for the brand. We now look forward to

mid-2020 onwards.

Bespoke lighting by C helsom Custom Over-Bar Pendant and Bar-Top Lamps at Mr.C Coconut Grove, Miami. Designer: Martin Brudnizki Design Studio.

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DRAWING BOARD

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Jo & Joe

AccorHotels’ Jo & Joe brand has revealed plans

we feel our commitment to freedom, autonomy

for an open house hospitality concept atop the

and brilliant design will fit right in with the

VIENNA

new City Ikea location at Vienna’s Westbahnhof

city’s aesthetic and the guests who travel here.”

station. Occupying the top two levels of the

With the architecture of the wider Ikea store

seven-storey building, Open House by Jo & Joe

overseen by Austrian firm Querkraft – the

will feature 345 beds, a fully integrated rooftop

project marking one of the Swedish furniture

restaurant and bar, and a host of in-house event

giant’s only inner-city store locations – the

and cultural programming.

structure’s hotel portion will seek to integrate

Set to open its doors in 2021 – marking the

itself within a proposed scheme characterised by

hotel brand’s entry into Austria and the German-

transparent elements along with an abundance

speaking region of Europe – the news follows

of greenery.

the opening of Jo & Joe’s first two properties in

“The modern architecture and the unique

Hossegor and Paris, which launched in 2017 and

location of the new City Ikea harmonise

2019 respectively.

perfectly with the exciting new world offered

“Our first Jo&Joe Open Houses have already

by Jo & Joe,” says Volkmar Pfaff, Managing

proven to be wildly popular, as the concept

Director of Accor Austria. “We are working

blends the best of private-rental, hostel and

together to create an inviting, well-connected

hotel formats,” explains Francois Leclerc, Vice

environment that reflects the lifestyle trends

President Brand & Operations, Jo&Joe. “We are

of a young, urban clientele. We are delighted

very enthusiastic about our partnership with

with this strategic partnership with Ikea and

Ikea and our newest location in Vienna, where

welcome further cooperation in the future.”

styling Ilaria Bacciocchi / photography Max Rommel / ad Designwork

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Odeon barstool design This Weber

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22/10/19 09:03

DRAWING BOARD

Book Tower

Real estate company Bedrock Detroit has

Bedrock. “Throughout the meticulous exterior

revealed plans for a mixed-use project within

restoration process, it became clear we needed to

DETROIT

Book Tower, set to feature a hotel element

partner with an architect that understands how

alongside residential, retail and office space.

to leverage modern uses in a way that preserves

Appointed as Design Architect, ODA New York

the unique historic details that has endeared

will oversee the creation of an ambitious adaptive

this building to Detroiters for generations.”

reuse complex encompassing a transformation of the 486,760ft2 structure’s interior portion.

Originally designed by Louis Kemper in 1916,

of retail space, galleries, restaurants and cafés –

the Italian Renaissance-style Book Tower will

many with sight lines to Washington Boulevard

be reimagined following the recent completion

and Grand River Avenue – as well as the as yet

of an extensive exterior restoration, which saw a

unnamed hospitality element.

full rehabilitation of the ornamental cornice and

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Bedrock Detroit Architecture: ODA New York www.bedrockdetroit.com

032

ODA’s plans include a mixture of public amenities and private space, such as the creation

Eran Chen, founding Principal of ODA,

its caryatid statues as well as the replacement of

comments:

2,483 historically accurate windows. A historic

engineering the conversion of such a legacy

“Restoring,

designing

and

glass skylight will also be reinstated as part of

structure requires the utmost reverence for the

the process.

remarkable history of the Book Tower, but also

“The Book Tower has been an iconic part

the vision and ambition to deliver a civic hub

of Detroit’s skyline for nearly a century,”

that complements the movement happening in

says Melissa Dittmer, Chief Design Officer at

Downtown Detroit.”

DRAWING BOARD

Ruby Stella

Ruby Hotels has announced plans for a

serving locally produced breakfasts, whilst each

second UK property, with Ruby Stella set to

room will be oriented towards attaining quality

LONDON

land in London’s Clerkenwell district in Q1

sleep by way of full soundproofing, blackout

2021 following the opening of Ruby Lucy in

curtains and custom mattresses. The lack of

Southbank in early 2020.

a kitchen, chef and minibars will be offset by

Part of the brand’s push to unveil a total of

galleys, vending machines and ironing stations

12 new hotels by 2022, Ruby Stella will occupy

for an independent guest experience. Each

a purpose-built space seeking to reflect the

guestroom will further include a Marshall

historic facades of Clerkenwell’s distinctive

amplifier, with guests able to plug in their own

vernacular. Collaborating with real estate

guitar or borrow one from the hotel.

partners Geneva Management Group and

The announcement is in line the brand’s

UDevelopments, the hotel will be located on

preference for modular designs within mixed-

Eyre Street Hill, a short walk from Farringdon

use or former office buildings in the heart

Station and a host of bars and restaurants.

of a city, as well as its focus on technology,

Comprising 154 guestrooms, ranging from Nest rooms (13-15m 2) to Loft rooms (23-

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: UDevelopment Operator: Ruby Hotels Partners: Geneva Management Group www.ruby-hotels.com

034

with self-check-in kiosks and personal tablets loaded with city guides and apps throughout.

38m2), the project will follow the Munich-based

The brand’s pipeline includes a number of

brand’s philosophy of lean luxury – tenets of

openings across Europe and Asia, including

which include “a top location, high-quality

Ruby Yu in Shanghai – a 150-key hotel slated

fittings and outstanding design offered at an

to open before the end of 2019 – as well as

affordable price by rigorously cutting out the

Ruby Louise on Düsseldorf’s Kasernenstrasse,

superfluous and focusing on the essential.”

and Ruby Louise in Frankfurt. Confirmed but as

A bar, communal workstation and library will be joined by a public space with a counter

yet unnamed Ruby hotels include locations in Helsinki, Munich, Geneva and Zhuhai.

Dimming in style Timeless design, clear function, genuine metal: rotary dimmers in Classic brass from the JUNG LS range.

JUNG-GROUP.COM

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17.10.19 10:17

MEETING…

Meeting…

Christoph Hoffmann The 25hours boss and recipient of AHEAD Europe 2019’s Outstanding Contribution award talks collaboration and creating uniqueness.

Words: Guy Dittrich • Portrait Photography: © Stephan Lemke

I

am not your normal CEO,” explains Christoph Hoffmann, the boss of 25hours Hotels. Founded in 2005, 25hours Hotels are not your normal hotels either. We are chatting on a brightly upholstered banquette in the Sape bar of the latest 25hours Hotel Terminus Nord in Paris.

It’s the morning after the hotel’s official opening party and his

boyish charm is undiminished, his eyes sparkling behind horn-

rimmed glasses. Like the hotel, the party was a riot of colour, dance, music, food and ethnicity, reflecting the property’s strong association with the eclectic neighbourhood of the Gare du Nord train terminus.

Each of the group’s 13 hotels are unique and live under the banner of “you know one, you know none”. Unconventional in realisation but a model that works financially. Revenues for 2018 came in around the €100 million mark for the 1,831 rooms in operation, with year-round occupancies at 80%. Not bad for this not-normal CEO. Hoffman grew up in the south eastern corner of Germany, showing his entrepreneurial flair when managing an independent wine store whilst still at school. He then started his career in tourism with a homesick spell in Manhattan working for an incentive agency.

Studies at Glion and Cornell hotel schools were followed by on-property hotel experience in both Jerusalem and New York before managerial positions with Kempinski, Bürgenstock Hotels and Resorts and the glamourous Hamburg stalwart, Hotel Louis C. Jacob. He left the latter to open a property proposed by Frankfurt real estate developer Ardi Goldman,

000

MEETING…

which failed to materialise. Subsequently, he became involved in the pop-up Fox Hotel in Copenhagen – a marketing ploy to promote a new VW car model.

The Fox project needed a jury to select student artists to decorate the guestrooms, so Hoffmann called on a few acquaintances including Goldman. Also invited were Stefan Gerhard, founder and partner of Treugast Solutions Group and Hamburg-based real estate developer Kai Hollman, who had opened the Asian-inspired Gastwerk Hotel. Soon followed the first 25hours Hotel. Together with red wine

“There are two levels of common denominator: at the conceptual level we have many experiences that are only particular to a certain hotel, and at the design level we are not minimalists!”

retro CRT Brionvega televisions; a playful take on boutique hospitality.

Different experiences but with similarities of humour, visual identity and co-operations – those with BMW Mini cars and Schindelhauer bicycles are across all hotels. It is rumoured that Hoffmann has a bike in every city where they have a hotel; my first meeting with him included a cycle around Hamburg. “There are two levels of common denominator,” he explains, “At the conceptual level we have many experiences that are only particular to a certain hotel, and at the design level we are not minimalists!”

they began to formulate ideas of hospitality for

Similarities come by way of collaborations

a new generation that circled back to this hotel,

with publishers – Taschen in Cologne, Mare

now called the 25hours Number One. Soon the group of four set up the business,

in Hamburg, kein&aber in Zurich. And F&B

each neatly having a 25% stake. “I was very lucky

concepts – the Austrian-Persian-Mediterranean

to find partners who have supported me from

based Neni restaurants are in six hotels.

the beginning. That amount of freedom was just

Boilerman Bars pop up in Hamburg and Munich,

perfect,” Hoffman reminisces, adding with his

whilst guests will find a Monkey Bar in Berlin

usual modesty, “and that is why the company

and Cologne. F&B is a key part of every hotel,

became a success”. Hoffmann represents a bit

accounting for 40% of total revenues in 2018.

of each of his partners – Hollman the hotelier,

The design experiences come thick and fast,

Gerhard the numbers man and Goldman the

all wrapped up in a saturated visual envelope.

maverick developer. Only he is 100% focussed

Lots of compelling artworks, graffiti, patterns

on the brand.

and colours. Armin Fischer, founder of Dreimeta

“Christoph epitomises the brand,” states

and designer of the very first 25hours as well

Claus Sendlinger, founder of Design Hotels,

as four subsequent hotels, knows this well:

with whom 25hours were long associated.

“Christoph hates walls where nothing is happening. A plain coloured wall is a lost wall

“His eclectic view of the world, his constant travel. He pulls it along.” Sendlinger references

Hafencity leaned on the city’s seafaring and

- a no go for him. His all-time favourite claim

Hoffmann’s dark, casually curly hair and his

maritime heritage with tales of romance, tattoos

is more is more.”

particular style - neckerchiefs, bracelets, tweed

and cabin rooms.

jackets and Redwing boots.

Hoffmann is not a creative at the design

Subsequent hotels also heeded their locale

level (“I am never heavily involved”) likening

The company’s first ventures together were

- Berlin is paired with the Tiergarten Zoo

his approach to that of playing design idea

in Frankfurt. In 2006, 25hours Hotel Frankfurt

which it overlooks. In Munich, it is the fairy

ping pong with his chosen collaborator, some

The Goldman celebrated the variety of the

tale wonderland of ‘mad’ King Ludwig II of

of whom have seen multiple hotels cross their

creative east of the city. The 25hours Levis

Schloss Neuschwanstein fame. Strong Germanic

boards. However, it is Fischer that he has turned

followed in 2008; a bold denim-clad venture

roots saw a third hotel for Hamburg joined by

to most. “When Christoph sets something in

in collaboration with the clothing brand’s

properties in Zurich (2), Cologne and Düsseldorf.

his mind he goes the whole hog,” Fischer

European HQ. This hotel was refurbished and

Each hotel has a different ‘red thread’ or

explains, “Especially the instant decisions. He

leitmotif based on the character of the building

never forgot one, and no argument from us

Two further openings came in 2011. The

and its contextual neighbourhood relationship.

– especially for his really crazy ideas – could

fourth hotel in the Museum Quarter of Vienna

Visiting the first, in a desolate industrial lot in

change his mind.” That being said, Fischer has

with interiors inspired by the circus culture of

Bahrenfeld in 2003, I remember a sense of fun,

finally managed to convince Hoffmann that LED

The Wurstelprater, whilst the fifth in Hamburg’s

where pops of colour mingled with raw concrete

lighting is not “the enemy number one”, noting

extended in 2018 and renamed The Trip.

038

– unusual at the time, contrasting with cute

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+44 (0) 1789 450522

MEETING…

“Christoph showed us total trust when he had no reason to do so. We could not have done a better job because of the trust he had in us.”

too that Hoffman is a fan of neon signage.

The CEO is a breath of fresh ideas and

he had in us.”

energy wherever he turns up. This openness

Hoffman likes to be known for his generosity

and friendliness make him the arch connector.

of time and thoughts, and holds an endearing

“Christoph is interested in everyone, getting

chameleon-like charm. A theme referenced by

them together,” explains Bruno Marti, Chief

Marti: “When Christoph is in Switzerland, he

Brand Officer. “For our Florence project, he

will say he feels more Swiss than German. In

is always bringing new locals he has met to

Vienna, he is more Austrian than German.”

meetings. We never see 80% of them again but

Making a short address at the previous

quite often we do end up collaborating with the

night’s opening, he refers to his love of Paris

other 20%.”

and how much he feels like a Parisian whenever

Hoffmann’s collaborative approach is based

he is visiting, much to the delight of the local

on trust. Amongst his first recruits to run the

crowd. It’s as well he likes Paris, as he is there

two Frankfurt properties were Henning Weiss

often following an investment by Accor that

and Michael End. “It was based on trust and a

now stands at 50%. “Around 2015, I realised

little anarchy,” quips Hoffmann. Empowered,

that we have all the destinations in German-

Wiess is now Chief Product Officer and End

speaking countries where we want to be.

Managing Director.

Overlooking the historic Weghuberpark, 25hours Hotel Vienna at MuseumsQuartier channels its playful character through circus-inspired design

not have done a better job because of the trust

From now on we have to go further away

On trust, the main collaborator for the back

to foreign grounds,” explains Hoffmann of

story for the design of the Parisian hotel, Alex

the start of the search for a strategic partner.

Toledano, Co-founder and President of Visto

Initial thoughts were for link-ups with non-

Images, comments: “Christoph showed us total

competing luxury hotel groups who were seen

trust when he had no reason to do so. We could

to have a closer fit to the lifestyle approach of

© Xxx

040

MEETING…

25hours. “And Accor agree. When it comes to

Sébastien Bazin, 25hours would not be part of

development, we are hooked up with the Raffles

the French hospitality giant. “It was his idea,

and Fairmont guys who are also doing more

his motivation to change Accor and for him

individualised properties,” he states, adding:

brands like 25hours were the right instrument.

“The link up with Accor is perfect because they

The right partnership.”

appreciate what we do.”

can we keep the 25hours DNA intact within

Tuscany sharing a Friday morning with his wife,

the Accor world?” continues Hoffmann. He

Petra. He has just had a swim and we speak on

sees the risk of expanding too fast whilst still

the phone as he warms himself on the terrace

maintaining the product’s differentiators, but

of the Hotel Il Pellicano, chosen because he has

also the risk of potential changes in power

some meetings in Florence the following week.

over new contracts. “We need to have enough

Picking up where we finished off, I ask of

leverage to protect our brand,” he states, noting

the Accor investment, “Didn’t you sell out?”

The 207-key 25hours Hotel The Circle in Koln occupies a 1950s era postmodern concrete building, wherein Studio Aisslinger have implemented a retrofuturist vision.

042

“The task for the next couple of years is how

By now it is a week later and Hoffmann is in

that Accor can be very helpful here.

Hoffmann chuckles in a “I’ve-heard-it-all-

The opportunities are for growth. Agreed

before” sort of way before coming clean, “To

with Accor are a list of 60 so-called ‘lift

be very frank I was also very happy I could cash

off’ destinations that include the major

out. I have the freedom of independence.” He

cosmopolitan destinations plus cities such as

continues, “Yes we sold out but on the other

Austin or Naples. The actual pipeline is for

hand is the chance and opportunity. Accor is not

Dubai, Florence and Copenhagen (2). Lisbon

at all interested in ‘swallowing’ us. Accor wants

and Venice are strong possibilities, plus more

to protect 25hours from themselves.” Hoffman

in Berlin and Munich. “Our main focus is

acknowledges that if it were not for Accor CEO

on Europe where we (25hours) can contract

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MEETING…

directly, with shareholder approval,” explains

Of the future outside of 25hours, Hoffmann

Hoffmann, “It is in the long-haul destinations

has a newly renovated house in the Swiss

where Accor can really help”.

Alps and an owning interest in Bikini Hotels,

Take the brand’s next opening for instance,

the first on Mallorca with an Alpine resort

its largest with 434-rooms in Dubai, a market

under consideration. These are not part of the

where Hoffmann has no experience. The

Accor deal. Hoffman sees Bikini as something

agreement is with one of Accor’s existing

nostalgic, of being a second home (with rooms

owners and the hotel will be just one of several

for rent) for his original business partners with

Accor-branded hotels in the One Central mixed-

whom he has such a strong friendship.

used development.

“We need to focus on concepts, on experience,

with 25hours Hotel Piazza San Paolino in

on F&B and creating great things within the

Florence, wherein a vibrant Paola Navone

hotels.” A vision that has seen the rise and rise

interior scheme inspired by Dante Alighieri’s

of a hotel brand that took seed in Copenhagen,

Inferno and Divine Comedy tales will link three

and will in 2021 come full circle with the

existing listed buildings for a 173-key project

opening of a Martin Brudnidzki designed hotel.

just steps from Piazza di Santa Maria Novella.

But not before Dubai and Florence. The travels

“The building itself has huge potential, and

Slated for a 2020 opening, 25hours Hotel Piazza San Paolino will mark the group’s Italian debut, drawing inspiration from Dante’s Inferno and Divine Comedy

044

Hoffman has a clear vision of the future,

Following this, a 2020 debut in Italy beckons

the spacious public spaces will certainly get our creative juices flowing,” says Florian Kollenz, Chief Development Officer. “Italy has topped the list of preferred locations in our expansion strategy for some time now.”

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THE LOBBY

Follow the Leader Bill Bensley will lead an exclusive group trip across South-East Asia throughout 2020, stopping at his favourite projects on the way.

Whilst the term ‘starchitect’ can often feel as awkward on the tongue as it does hung around the necks of the era’s great designers, few today can claim the term as comfortably as Bill Bensley.

Some starchitects have the profile to afford them full creative control of a project, and others have the draw to have guests follow them across a continent. Bensley seemingly has both, and with New York-based luxury travel designer Remote Lands will host an intimate, designfocused journey across Southeast Asia in 2020, making stops at four of his most acclaimed hotel projects on the way.

Beginning on 16 February at Rosewood Luang Prabang, eight couples and the man himself will venture to Shinta Mani Angkor, then Shinta Mani Wild, followed by the newlyopened Rosewood Bangkok and finally InterContinental Danang, with a series of curated experiences including dinner and drinks with Bensley, as well as temple walks, helicopter rides, cookery classes, cultural excursions tied into each property, topped off with a trip to the Bensley Design Studio for a look behind the scenes.

How much, you ask? Lots – or a cool $37,000 per person at least – but if time is money, and inspiration is priceless, then the most dedicated members of the Bensley Brigade should have no qualms completing the trail with their favourite designer leading the way.

“I am passionate about conservation and helping folks and animals in need, and my inspiration in developing this trip was to use hospitality to help people that need it in a sustainable fashion,” Bensley explains. “Our hope is that this trip will educate and inspire, while providing remarkable experiences in incredible places.”

THE LOBBY

Reefer Madness Off the Maldivian coast, Fairmont and Jason deCaires Taylor seek to highlight the impending extinction of the planet’s coral reefs.

With global ocean temperatures on the rise

Inspired by the natural beauty of barrier

thanks to accelerating climate crisis symptoms,

reefs from The Great to The Mesoamerican, the

the planet’s coral reef ecosystems are under

tessellated sculptures have been designed to

severe threat. From mass bleaching events and

imitate the formation of colonies, rising from ten

plummeting calcification levels to infectious

semi-submerged plinths within the property’s

disease and acidification, the rainforests of the

wartery border.

sea – providing a home to 25% of all marine

Seeking to at once educate guests about their

species as well as essential shoreline protection

underwater surroundings and rehabilitate the

– are quickly waning thanks to volatile weather

reef around the resort, the installation acts as

changes and the overabsorption of carbon dioxide.

a visual connector between surface and deep,

Though scientists and ecologists continue the

with each up to 5m tall and formed of more than

fight to maintain and restore the reefs, the

500 ceramic, marine-grade compound ‘starfish’

outlook remains gloomy, with a 2017 UNESCO

designed to attract a variety of aquatic life. The

report predicting that the whole lot could be gone

hard shells catch and hold biomass, encouraging

within 30 years save for drastic action.

coral larvae to attach, whist fissures and nooks

Though the power to enact change largely

048

provide hiding places and habitats.

lies with the same companies and groups who

Placed strategically around the resort – the

contribute to the decline, many brands and

waters of which contain manta rays, turtles

individuals are nonetheless stepping into the

bottlenose dolphins and 250 species of fish –

ring to raise awareness – not least British

snorkelling guests can explore the sculptures

environmentalist and artist Jason deCaires Taylor,

via a sea-scaped coral pathway ending with a

who has collaborated with Fairmont Maldives

200m infinity pool, and even create or plant

Sirru Fen Fushi to create a series of underwater

their own in an on-site studio. And who knows;

sculptures within the property’s Coralarium, the

maybe in 30 years they’ll still be there for the

tropical nation’s first coral regeneration project.

next generation to enjoy.

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2019_12_Sleeper_Arte.indd 1

23/09/19 10:55

THE LOBBY

Turndown Delights Forget chocolates on pillows, the latest hotel turndown services from The Lowry Hotel in Manchester are setting a new standard. Moving away from traditional practices, the property has introduced a full menu of welcome packages that are personalised to each guest.

Suited to the growing number of mindful travellers, the Wellness turndown includes a yoga mat and exercise video upon arrival, as well as a bottle of Kombucha and a travel size Aromatherapy Associates kit complete with Revive bodywash and bath and shower oils to help awaken body and soul.

For those who’d rather be enjoying a peaceful night’s kip, the Sleep Well bundle is equipped with a sleep podcast and eye mask, with the addition of an Aromatherapy Associates Relax Sleep Edit and pillow menu allowing guests to tailor their hotel room and create the ideal sleeping environment.

Meanwhile, the romantic Indulge Us option comprises a bottle of champagne, two Elemis Thousand Flower face masks and a bespoke bath butler, while the Snuggle turndown makes visitors feel right at home with a DIY hot chocolate kit, a Lowry bear and a hot water bottle amongst other comforting treats. Other choices include a business welcome and kids’ option, as well as an eco-turndown for travellers wishing to save on the energy and simply access their room with no bells and whistles.

Lounging Around Reading material is often scarce in hotel rooms, with many offering little more than a directory and a map of the local area – if you’re lucky. Looking to challenge that statement and persuade its guests to spend more time in the lobby, Domes Miramare Corfu – a member of Marriott’s Luxury Collection – has announced an exclusive partnership with luxury publisher Assouline to create a new reading lounge, where coveted books are available to read, buy and even have delivered to your home address.

Situated next to the hotel’s iconic Blue Bar, the lounge features comfortable sofas and chairs from which visitors can browse through an extensive Assouline portfolio, including the prized Impossible Collection, which is among the publisher’s most expensive book series.

Part of an ongoing programme developed by hospitality consultancy Globe & Trotter for Domes Resorts, the space will also host a series of special events and gatherings throughout the seasons, the first of which took place this September in the form of an exclusive dinner with Angela Missoni and Francesco Maccapani Missoni – where the duo recreated recipes from The Missoni Family Cookbook.

Set in shore-hugging grounds and surrounded by olive groves, Domes Miramare was originally designed by architect Charalambos Sfaellos and built for the Onassis family in the late 1960s, while its latest refurbishment has been completed by Kristina Zanic Design Consultants.

050

HOUSE OF SURFACES

BERLIN LONDON MILAN SÃO PAULO CARRARA www.ariostea.com

THE LOBBY

Sign of the Times

Loyalty & Love A hotel is a lot like a marriage in that

a hotel by revealing our couples behind

success largely depends on loyalty; its

closed doors, suspended in their own

fortunes often resting on the shoulders

private bubble of their hotel room. The

of a core group of returning guests. With

result is a collection of images which put

the largest hotel loyalty programme in

the romance back into travel and show

the world - spanning 6,700 properties in

the important role that this precious time

100 countries – it’s fair to say Marriott

together can play in a relationship.”

International knows a few things about keeping its better half happy.

To mark the launch of Marriott

as Marriott Bonvoy programme members,

Bonvoy – the new loyalty programme

with the series showcasing the unique

that incorporates the former Starwood

bonds between couples the world over, and

Preferred Guest scheme – the group

seeking to highlight the power of travel to

has tapped Rankin – acclaimed British

enrich companionship.

photographer and founder of Dazed &

“We know that true loyalty is much

Confused magazine – to document the

deeper than a transaction,” notes Belinda

concept of loyalty across 15 modern

Pote, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer,

relationships.

Marriott International Europe. “So, while

“Hotels are fascinating places; each

we reward our guests for staying with us,

guest and room has a different story to

we know that it is the connections we

tell, forming a treasure trove of memories

make and the experiences we enjoy that

made together,” Rankin explains. “In

build loyalty, in our relationships as well

Loyalty & Love, we wanted to capture

as our hotel choices.”

the romance and glamour of staying in

052

Subjects of Love & Loyalty include actors, sportspeople and designers, as well

A new book published by London-based creative agency Exposure tracks the evolution of the humble do not disturb sign. CEO Raoul Shah began collecting the signs in 1980; first as mementos of trips with parents, then out of an obsession with the ways properties, designers and guests around the world interpret this universal staple of hotel life.

Now numbering in the hundreds, the collection has been immortalised in print by way of the aptly titled Do Not Disturb: a weighty volume showcasing a sign from every hotel Shah has visited. The result is a comprehensive document of shifts in hotel branding, design, aesthetics, and attitude, ranging from the straightforward efficiency of Ace Hotel New York’s NOT NOW/NOW door squares to Mama Shelter Paris’ risqué thong-hanging-from-the-handle number.

More extravagant editions include a carved wooden fish from Amankila Resort Bali, and a calligraphy brush with engraved copper plate from Singapore’s Six Senses Duxton. “They bookmark history; the beautiful ones transform a familiar hanging object into a piece of art,” Shah explains. “But they’re foremost symbols of privacy, and in a world where the distinction between public and private is increasingly blurred, they represent the growing sanctity of closing the door.”

STATEMENT LIVING

BY KELLY HOPPEN

www.hakwood.com

W

e are witnessing a profound shift in

them on various online platforms, listen to their

the mindset of global travellers, with

feedback and respond in real time,” Stavridis

surveys suggesting that over 60% of US

continues. “On a brand ambassadorship level,

tourists now use social media to select their next

top-tier talent could curate wellness experiences

hotel. Subsequently, operators are partnering

and launch promotional campaigns around them,

with influencers from the realms of fashion, art

acting as creative directors to help design suites

and design in a bid to reach new audiences.

or villas available to guests in the future.”

Bridging that gap further, the newly launched

Utilising its expertise in fashion too, Elite

Hospitality Division of Elite London and The

is giving hotel brands the opportunity to host

Society New York offers bespoke opportunities to

special events during fashion weeks in major

luxury resorts worldwide, ranging from content

capitals such as New York, Paris, Milan and

creation and special events to artists-in-residence

London. Billed as ‘Elitism’, the gatherings would

programmes and brand ambassadorships.

be held by a prominent influencer and may range

“The Hospitality Division of Elite and Society

from a small intimate dinner for select personnel

gives hotels access to an incredibly versatile

to a large-scale event featuring DJ sets and live

roster of creatives, which ranges from micro-

performances, with bespoke content created

A New Business Model As the worlds of travel and fashion continue to converge, global modelling agencies seek to connect acclaimed influencers with leading hospitality brands

influencers to social megastars,” says Haris

before and during the occasion pushed out to

Stavridis, Managing Director of consultancy firm

the masses on Instagram, Twitter and the like.

Globe & Trotter. “It’s essentially a platform that

Meanwhile, Elite’s Takeover package could

enables them to create bespoke experiences for

support the launch of a new hotel or venue,

their guests, with the goal of increasing their

utilising the global reach of Elite and Society

brand awareness and ultimately their revenue.”

members to offer targeted and simultaneous

With the likes of Kendall Jenner, Adriana Lima

online exposure. Original content based on

and Rita Ora on its books, Elite is no stranger

the client’s brief would be distributed across

to high-level collaborations and its new concept

participating influencers’ digital channels as

follows suit. Hotels looking to tap into the

well as Elite’s, while limited edition ‘Elite X Hotel

flourishing wellness sector, for example, can

partner’ merchandising would generate further

partner with leading talents on ambassadorships

discussion amongst the fashion community.

that may include a fitness boot camp with activities

For Stavridis, the shift in the way hotels

based on the individual’s wellness philosophy, or

promote themselves and interact with guests

complementary nutrition plan developed by the

online is only set to grow going forward: “Social

hotel’s F&B team. Accompanying that, marketing

media has democratised content creation and

collaterals such as workout videos starring the

distribution, giving voice to creative people and

influencer and attendance to press or VVIP events

expanding the reach of brands,” he reflects.

could be promoted across a variety of social

“Instagram seems to have replaced the gallery

platforms to ensure maximum media exposure.

section of hotel websites, meaning interior

“Hotels now have a plethora of digital tools to

designers going forward will seek to create spaces

better understand their customers, engage with

054

that look good on a mobile phone camera.”

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23.08.19 17:35

T

he protests that brought Hong Kong to a

Kong Government and Monetary Authority,

standstill in 2019 began as a movement

Girish highlights the recurring hit hotels take in

opposing an extradition bill that would

times of civil and political unrest. Despite many

subject the autonomous region to elements of

businesses remaining open, a city’s hotels are

mainland Chinese rule, though quickly escalated

tethered to its global perception and the whims

into a wider fight to protect its democratic

of tourists. As such, Ovolo and other Hong Kong-

core. Following ongoing clashes with police,

based or operational hotel brands – from major

the shutdown of Hong Kong International

players all the way down to individual properties

Airport and various legislative buildings due

– will likely see diminished returns due to a

to occupation, and multiple instances of public

quickly-developing situation far beyond their

violence, the original bill has been dropped, but

control. A resilient tourism industry has survived

protesters have nonetheless persevered, setting

financial crashes, terror attacks and mass

out five demands including universal suffrage

disruption before, but whilst the fundamental,

and an investigation into police brutality that

day-to-day rules of the region remain uncertain

must be met if the protests are to end. China’s

going forwards – torn between two vastly

ruling CPC shows little desire to cede such power,

different models of governance – how can the

The Powers That Be Ongoing demonstrations in Hong Kong have once again highlighted the effects of political and civil unrest on the hotel industry.

and so the demonstrations roll on.

visitor numbers to a region switching between

concentrated around Hong Kong Island’s

binary socioeconomic climates rise or fall? And

government buildings, the unrest has spread to

would the resulting guest profiles and desires be

encompass residential, commercial and leisure

different as a result?

districts alike. In other major global cities the

“It is imperative the Hong Kong Government

effects might have looked different, but in both

and Hong Kong Monetary Authority both step in

one of the most densely populated and financially

to lend a helping hand to local businesses who

significant places on earth the suspension

are struggling during these times,” Jhunjhnuwala

of business as usual has proved increasingly

adds. “Not only to ensure we reduce negative

problematic for the hotel industry.

economic impact and avoid loss of wages or jobs,

“It’s devastating to see the effect that the recent situation in our city has had on local businesses,

but to ultimately protect Hong Kong’s status as a thriving tourism hub for years to come.”

particularly those of us in the hospitality

These protests – along with the haze of Brexit

industry,” explains Girish Jhunjhnuwala, founder

and Trump’s rapid ascendancy – have highlighted

& CEO, Ovolo Group. “As reported by the SCMP,

how deeply hotels can find themselves embroiled

tourist arrivals YOY have fallen by 5% in July and

in and struck by political uncertainty. However,

an alarming 40% in August – the largest decline

in a time of great technological change, growing

since the SARS outbreak in 2003. Group arrivals

inequality and simmering tensions worldwide,

from the mainland have also dropped by 90% in

guests remain human beings as opposed to

the first 10 days of September.”

numbers, and it’s up to hoteliers to decide what

Issued as part of a plea for aid from the Hong

056

industry prepare for uncertain outcomes? Would

Whilst much of the disruption has been

they think is more important.

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Euphoria Retreat MYSTRAS A new spa retreat in the foothills of Greece’s Taygetos Mountains blends Hellenic and Chinese healing philosophies to transform mind, body and soul.

Words: Catherine Martin Photography: Courtesy of Euphoria Retreat

I

n Ancient Greece, ailing and weary pilgrims would flock to therapeutic healing centres, or Asclepeions, in search of spiritual and physical rejuvenation. Often found in areas

of awe-inspiring natural beauty, the temples – built to honour the god of medicine – centred around purification, with treatment involving a series of cleansing baths and a detoxifying diet before recuperation in a dream chamber, where a visit from the Divine Physician himself would cure the affliction. The belief that wellbeing not only concerns physical health but that of the mind, body and soul was surely ahead of its time, and it’s this holistic approach that is at the heart of Euphoria Retreat.

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Nestled in the foothills of the Taygetos

also the feeling that something was missing,

Mountains amongst dense plantations of pine

not so much in the amenities and treatments,

and cypress, the destination spa is located in the

but in the soul of the place,” she continues.

Byzantine village of Mystras, a UNESCO World

“I discovered that the answer lay in my Greek

Heritage Site known for its imposing medieval

heritage. Ancient Greek philosophers viewed life

castle. It is the vision of Marina Efraimoglou, an

as joyful, sensual and full of exciting potential

ex-banker whose battle with cancer compelled

for growth and discovery.”

her to reassess her life.

right site for her project, and a huge investment

journey of transformation,” she explains. “I

in time and resource to bring it to life. The

wanted to create a place where people with

result however is standout, combining world-

similar needs could feel at home, and be

class design, facilities and programming for a

nurtured and guided on their own personal

truly transformational experience.

journey to a more holistic, socially aware and spiritually satisfying way of life.”

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It took a decade for Efraimoglou to find the

“Euphoria Retreat represents my personal

“Euphoria uniquely blends ancient Hellenic and Chinese healing philosophies and practices,

Having retrained in Chinese medicine and

allowing you to reconnect with your inner self

developed a fascination with the Five Elements,

and achieve meaningful life change at every

Efraimoglou made the leap and dedicated her

level – physical, emotional and spiritual,”

life to the practice. “As well as beginning my

Efraimoglou explains. “Ultimately, to become

work in transformational healing by leading

your own healer.”

workshops and retreats, I visited many healing

The idea of self-guided transformation is

places and spas around the world. Each time

central to the concept, as evidenced by the

I was filled with ideas and inspiration, but

retreat’s tagline – ‘Your Life, Your Journey’.

An email prior to arrival outlines spa etiquette

while yin and yang play with seeming

– an alcohol-free stay is recommended, herbal

opposite yet complementary forces, seen here

teas replace coffee, and refreshingly, no mobile

in the constant interplay of light and shade.

phones are permitted in the spa or restaurant –

Byzantine elements have been incorporated

however Efraimoglou notes that the programme

too, with rounded arches and concentric circles

is not about sacrifice and denial, rather it

making regular appearances, and colourways

encourages guests to make better decisions for

characteristic of the region’s rich iconography.

their own wellbeing.

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The scheme carries through to the lobby,

The journey begins with the design concept,

library and restaurant, as well as the 45

in which elegant curves, archways and domes

guestrooms – some of which occupy a historic

combine with a soothing palette of colour and

mansion dating back to the 1830s – though is

texture to create a tranquil, almost monastic

at its best in the spa.

ambiance. Part-conversion, part-newbuild, the

Partly below ground – owing to the belief that

scheme has been devised by Deca Architecture

the body heals better when closer to the earth

– an Athens-based studio with a focus on

– the spa is spread across four levels, each with

sensory experience – and Natalia Efraimoglou

different facilities and representing a step in the

& Partners, headed up by the sister of Euphoria

transformational process. At the centre, a 25m

Retreat’s founder.

water well with a cleansing foot bath at its base

In keeping with the project’s philosophy, the

is encircled by a spiral staircase connecting the

teams worked together to bring both Ancient

zones. The second floor houses a sauna, steam

Greek and Chinese elements to the mix. From

room, experience showers and an icy plunge

the Far East, feng shui uses energy to create

pool, as well as a Byzantine hammam, marble

harmony with the surrounding environment,

tepidarium and speleotherapy salt room, while

the rest of the treatment rooms are situated up

catering to the stresses of modern-day life,

on the third floor.

or there’s the all-encompassing seven-

It’s the swimming pool however that’s the

day Intelligent Mediterranean Metabolic

real showstopper. Inspired by Istanbul’s Hagia

Homeostasis Therapy, which sets you on the

Sofia, widely regarded as the most spectacular

path of full physical, emotional and spiritual

example of Byzantine architecture, the dome-

transformation. In addition to the signature

like sphere pool is a meditative experience that

therapies, this programme also offers the

touches all the senses, with sound and light

services of an on-site medical team, who carry

therapy extending both above and below the

out blood tests, body scans, nutritional analyses

water’s surface, and hydro-therapy jets around

and biofeedback profiling to create a truly

the perimeter providing a deep tissue massage.

personalised experience.

Up on the top floor of the spa, meanwhile,

Since opening, Euphoria Retreat has already

are two studios hosting private and group yoga

scooped a handful of awards, and made the

classes, as well as meditation, lectures and

shortlist in the Spa category for AHEAD Europe,

workshops, and it’s here that guests emerge

the results of which will be announced in the

transformed having achieved physical, mental

coming weeks. But as Efraimoglou points out,

and emotional catharsis.

this isn’t a hotel with a spa, rather a spa retreat

While some come to Euphoria Retreat for a spa break, the majority book in for a full body and mind health check, opting for one of the all-inclusive programmes that incorporate fitness, mindfulness, treatments and meal plans. There’s one for weight loss, another

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in which every aspect of health and wellbeing is considered; there’s little else like it.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Marina Efraimoglou Investor: Evoikos Architecture and Interior Design: Deca Architecture; Natalia Efraimoglou www.euphoriaretreat.com

“Oh, the thinks you can think up if only you try.”

—Dr. Seuss

“The Hills of Grasse” by Tamsen Hall © Kalisher

kalisher.com

2019-01-Kalisher-Sleeper.indd 2

1/22/19 10:39 AM

The Audo COPENHAGEN This hybrid space combining hotel, showroom, co-working facilities, and concept store has provided a new home for Danish design brand Menu.

Words: Matt Turner Photography: © Kim Petersen

A

bbreviated from the Latin ‘Ab Uno Disce

seen as a meeting place for the international

Omnes’ – meaning ‘From one, learn

art and design communities to come together,

all’ – The Audo is a new hybrid space

collaborate, experiment, and incorporate the

combining hotel residence with co-working

inspiration they find into “a unique story that

and event facilities, a café, restaurant, material

they can then share with the world.”

library and concept store.

According to Chief Design & Brand Officer

It is also the new home for Danish design

Joachim Kornbek Hansen: “The new space is

brand Menu, providing a space for the company’s

a hub for powerful ideas, beautiful design and

portfolio of furniture, lighting and accessories

inspiration. Through openness, knowledge-

to be presented and experienced in new and

sharing and collaboration, we have taken a

authentic ways. As such, the firm’s Copenhagen

new approach to running a design business.

HQ and showroom now reside within a Neo-

Our move to The Audo highlights the

Baroque residence dating back to 1918.

multidisciplinary, unifying nature of design,

Headed by former Menu CEO and founder, Bjarne Hansen, working in partnership with

while serving as a showcase and testing ground for our new concepts.”

Norm Architects and Nathan Williams, co-

The project’s architecture team, led by

founder of lifestyle magazine Kinfolk, the Audo

Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen and Peter Eland of Norm

is designed to reflect the rapidly changing

Architects, has transformed a disused merchant

intersection of home, work and hospitality in

house for a shipping magnate in Nordhavn –

“a single, community-building universe.” It is

a former industrial port now emerging as a

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newly revitalised waterfront district. The Audo is housed in one of the oldest buildings in the area, behind its restored historical façade.

The 2,500m2 multi-functional space features a mix of original features and carefully considered new elements.

Of course Menu’s own product range features extensively, but there is also a curated selection of products from other premium design brands too. Against a subdued architectural backdrop of concrete and wood, brass finishes lend warmth whilst the selection of artworks, books and magazines make this feel more like a lived-in home than a typical sterile furniture showroom.

As visitors enter, a marble counter to the left doubles as both cocktail bar and hotel reception, with artfully-arranged furniture vignettes, set atop bouclé rugs against a backdrop of smooth, polished concrete. Beyond the welcoming entrance area, broad marble steps lead up to an extensive, neatly organised materials library, where interior designers and architects can explore Menu’s product range alongside textile and tile samples from their partners.

There is a café-cum-coworking space, and a restaurant for which the operator was still to be announced on Sleeper’s visit. In the concept store, visitors can purchase the linens and bathrobes offered to guests in the rooms. A curated selection of accessories, cushions, crockery and furniture is also for sale. There are wooden sculptures by designer Nicholas Shurey, alongside paintings by Portland-based artist Benjamin Ewing.

In the ten loft-style retreats nestled into the eaves of the building, beds are by Dux, with organic linens from Aiayu.

Towels and bathrobes are by Tekla. Walls are finished in a terracotta type paint finish by a new Danish firm St Leo, with warm oak flooring by Dinesen underfoot, and exposed, original wooden beams above. Bathrooms feature ceramics by Kronos, with Geberit and Hansgrohe fittings.

Textiles include fabrics by Sahco and Dedar, with leather

by Sorenson. Cabinetry throughout is by Kolon. Even the door handles, by Singapore-based Turn Handles, have been

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Developer: SpaceCo Operator: The Audo Interior Designer: Jonas BjerrePoulsen & Nathan Williams Architect: Norm Architects www.theaudo.com

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painstakingly sourced. Menu CEO Danny Feltmann Espersen says: “Blurring the lines between home and work, and uniting design, business and community in one innovative, physical space under constant renewal, The Audo is an experiential, sensorial residence where products from the world’s premium design brands will engage in dialogue.”

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

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

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

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4/15/19 10:52 AM

Can Bordoy Grand House & Garden PALMA DE MALLORCA The botanic world takes centrestage in the conversion of a historic mansion, set around the largest private garden in central Palma.

Words: Agnish Ray • Photography: © Jose Hevia

W

hen Swedish businessman Mikael Hall got his hands on a disused, centuries-old mansion in the heart of Palma’s old town, he first planned on turning

it into an apartment block. What quickly changed his mind was the secluded garden he found tucked away at the back, said to be one of the largest in the historic centre – an offer too wonderful to keep from public access.

Tasked with remodelling the site into a hotel instead, Paloma Hernaiz and Jaime Oliver – founders of Spanish architecture and design studio OHLAB – discovered several different time periods reflected in the building’s remains.

The front façade, explains Oliver, could date as far back as the 15th century, with its small windows above, designed for the privacy of the household’s noble owners. The large, evenly spaced windows at the back, on the other hand, indicate the more egalitarian, socially inclusive layouts of 20th century architecture. Meanwhile, the stairway inside the building was almost certainly built by a 19th century middle-class.

From aristocracy and bourgeoisie to the nouveau riche who made money through colonial trade in Latin America, this house is likely to have been home to many different types of

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families over the centuries. The sense of home was therefore what the new hotel’s owners were most interested in evoking. Although a five-star establishment, Can Bordoy aims for the ambience of a family-run guesthouse.

Living rooms and dining rooms replace lobbies and restaurants here; in fact, guests can dine wherever they choose, whether it be the library, garden, or their own suite. Homely and comfortable is the name of the game. There is even a pet dog – a majestic Afghan galgo hound called Mr B. The designers have preserved many of the elements of the building as they found it: original, typically Balearic stones like santanyí and marés remain in the walls; and many of the windows have been made from pieces of blown

In the dining room, bird-shaped lamps

by Neri & Hu hang alongside antique bird cages, whose doors have been left open as if their former inhabitants have taken flight

glass discovered on site. Inside, from the pine fixtures to the velvet curtains and silk Turkish rugs, much of the decor recreates the opulence of centuries past, with furniture and ornaments sourced from local and foreign antiques dealers.

But just as old meets new in the building’s architecture, OHLAB wanted the hotel’s interior to contain similar contrasts. Bold pieces of contemporary art and design sit among the antiquity – like a mirror installation on the ceiling above the cocktail area, reflecting the glimmering bar beneath it. A series of 28 abstract paintings by the artist Pedro Oliver hang on bare, unframed canvases around the hotel – a

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sharp contrast with the period portraits of noble

with hot tub and massage tables. The natural

figures also found on many of the walls.

essence of the wildlife outside penetrates the

Reminders of the colonial era are found in the

interior, too: creepers spread across the ceiling

hotel’s furniture – like the wicker chairs in the

of the lounge area, joining the front patio and

dining areas. Elsewhere, contemporary seating

the back garden; and bird-shaped lamps by

ranges by Moroso and Tonet mimic the colonial

Shanghai-based contemporary design practice

styles, but sport bright colours and abstract

Neri & Hu hang overhead in the dining room.

shapes. Emblems of local craftsmanship are

These are perched among numerous antique

found in items like the ceramic jars in the

bird cages, whose doors have been left open as if

bathrooms, dispensing soaps, moisturisers

their former inhabitants have taken flight. Such

and shampoos, designed by Mallorca-based

touches contribute to a charming design scheme

Paparkone studio.

that has captured the attention of the industry –

In the garden, landscaper Salva Cañís has

Can Bordoy has been shortlisted for no less than

breathed new life in to the 750m2 oasis. Filled

three AHEAD awards – and undoubtedly makes

with laurel, wild olive and Jacaranda trees,

its mark in a crowded market.

it now seats al fresco diners of the Botànic restaurant, run by chef Andrés Benítez with a menu championing healthy, fresh local produce.

A European hackberry tree – recognised as a sign of welcome in Mallorcan houses – provides shade while a carefully placed hedge gently conceals the private pool area, complete

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EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Mikael Hall Architecture and Interior Design: OHLAB Main Contractor: RROCB Graphic Design: Studio Roses Landscaping: Salva Cañís www.canbordoy.com

The Muse Luxury Residences – Sunny Isles Beach, Florida Designed by Antrobus + Ramirez Design Miami

preciosalighting.com

Asbury Ocean Club NEW JERSEY Anda Andrei reimagines surfside living in Asbury Park, where iStar’s mixed-use development is resurrecting a neighbourhood.

Words: Juliana Shallcross Photography: © Nikolas Koenig

B

y her own admission, Anda Andrei – the

languishing in a down-and-out existence,

creative director and interior designer

where the only good thing that came out of it

behind some of the world’s leading

was Bruce Springsteen (his song ‘4th of July,

boutique hotels – has been involved in her share

Asbury Park’ aptly captures the mood of the

of envelope-pushing projects.

town in the early 1970s).

In a role that lasted 29 years and included

After other development plans failed to

iconic properties like The Royalton in New York,

restore the city’s boardwalk, iStar, a real estate

The Delano in Miami and The London Edition,

company led by CEO Jay Sugarman, stepped up

Andrei was the subtle yet powerful creative

in 2009 with a different take on how to revive

energy at Morgans Hotel Group and later, the

the city. “We were trying to recapture Asbury

Ian Schrager Company, establishing a sleek and

Park’s unique place in history – a city on the

luxe aesthetic that made these hotels loved by

beach where everyone wanted to go, drawing

guests and owners alike.

from New York and New Jersey, and all the way

Yet her latest endeavour goes beyond creating

down to Philadelphia,” Sugarman explains.

a new hotel in town. This time, it’s the town

“What drew them then is still there today – the

that’s being made new again.

wide beaches, the grand boardwalk promenade,

Asbury Ocean Club, a 54-room hotel just a block from the iconic boardwalk, is the pinnacle

the architectural gems, the vibrant food, music and nightlife cultures.”

piece in a decades-long redevelopment project

Yet iStar didn’t want to simply resurrect the

to resurrect Asbury Park, a Jersey shore town

past. Sugarman said their real intent was to

just 70 minutes from Manhattan. Once a

add “new layers” to the city that captured how

buzzing seaside destination at the turn of the

people want to live and play today. Those layers

20th century, Asbury Park spent several decades

include hotels, residences and hangouts.

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The drawing room, a glass-encased space anchored by a green tile fireplace, features mix-and-match furniture from different countries, mostly custom-made and in vivid colours

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With 35 acres of land to reimagine – nearly a mile of empty oceanfront space – Sugarman

building. Hence The Asbury was built out of the town’s old Salvation Army outpost.

said he needed someone “really talented, totally

“The intention was to create a new centre of

committed and a little bit crazy” to take on the

town with lots of activities. Frankly, Asbury has

project. Enter Andrei.

three times more public space than is normal for

“Anda definitely had the talent,” Sugarman

a hotel that size,” says Andrei of the 110-room

notes. “I had seen her dedication to perfection

hotel, which is operated by hotelier David Bowd

in many of the projects she had worked on

and his company, Salt Hotels. “It’s probably

before, and it just worked out that she is a bit

the first hotel where in the public space I said,

of a mad scientist and knows a lot of cool and

‘Anything goes. Wherever you want to move the

crazy people in the design world.”

furniture is fine’, which is very much against

Having recently started her own company,

my grain and anything I’ve ever done before but

Andrei didn’t know much about Asbury Park,

it is this easiness, this casualness that’s inspired

but after Sugarman explained his long-term

by the town.”

vision, she was immediately on board. “iStar

The Asbury opened in 2016, followed by The

wanted to grow one-by-one, organically, with

Monroe – a small luxury apartment building –

the town. That is the right way to do it, so that

and then The Asbury Lanes, a historic bowling

you don’t kill what’s so special about a place,”

alley and a treasured part of Asbury Park history

she explains.

that iStar painstakingly salvaged and restored.

Their first project was to build a hotel as a

On opening night in 2018, Bruce Springsteen

way to get people into the town and see what

christened the lanes with a special performance.

it’s all about. And the fastest way to build a

But the end goal, says Andrei, was always

hotel, Andrei explained, is to use an existing

Asbury Ocean Club, a 17-storey building

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designed by Handel Architects. And here’s where Andrei and iStar fashioned a different type of beachfront hotel, one that feels as if it could be on an island far away, with multiple flights required, instead of just an hour’s car drive away.

The guestrooms, drawing room, restaurant and pool deck overlooking the ocean are all located on the fourth floor. After arriving in on the ground floor, guests are escorted to their rooms by a host where the check-in process is completed. On the additional floors are 130 high-end residences. Below the hotel rooms are a fitness centre, spa, resident amenities, and meeting rooms. Salt Hotels is also responsible for this hotel’s operations, often hiring local Asbury Park residents for jobs.

“It was a conscious decision to put the hotel only on one floor and to approach it more like

In the guestrooms, Andrei and her team opted for cosy, classic finishes and colours like wood wainscoting and neutral fabrics that work all year around, not just in the summer

a resort on the beach,” explains Andrei. Indeed, going out to the pool, the bar and back to your room without having to endure an awkward elevator ride feels like a luxury in itself.

The existing pile foundations which iStar inherited when they purchased the building also enabled the hotel to have much larger rooms, all with sitting areas, in several different configurations, and with continuous 12ft ceilings, even in the bathrooms. The cornerstone of each room is the soaring glass vestibule, which Andrei says mimics an outdoor shower, although there’s a curtain to pull around if a guest isn’t feeling quite so bold.

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leds-c4.com

As for the views, the rooms that open out into

and almost everything done in vivid colours.

a dune garden created by landscape designer

“You have a huge amount of blue that you

Madison Cox, may be in more demand than

are looking at all the time with the sky, the

the ocean view rooms. “These are just magic

ocean and the pool, along with reflecting water

because you feel like you’re at the beach and you

outside the drawing room that reflects the sky,”

totally forget that you are on the fourth floor of

Andrei explains. “That’s why I went more for

a building,” notes Andrei.

the semi-precious gem shades. They are not

Andrei also ditched the usual beach resort

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your expected colours.”

decor. “A place by the ocean always has the blue

While The Asbury is a nod to the fun and

fabric with the green fabric, some driftwood and

rambunctiousness of Asbury Park, Asbury Ocean

some white. That’s the staple look for any beach

Club is meant to be an introvert’s ideal hotel,

place. And somehow I went far away from it in

says Andrei, a place where you can hole up for

a certain way,” she explains. In the guestrooms,

three days without ever leaving.

Andrei and her team opted for cosy, classic

It may take a while for the idea of Asbury

finishes and colours like wood wainscoting and

Park as a luxury hideaway to catch on, but the

neutral fabrics that work all year around, not

new hotels have already changed the city’s

just in summer.

spirit. “It’s amazing how many new restaurants

This departure is also seen in the unofficial

there are, how many new jobs there are. Even

centerpiece of the hotel – the drawing room,

the attitude of everybody working in the hotel

a glass-encased room anchored by a green

has changed,” Andrei concludes. “They are so

tile fireplace in the middle. Surrounding the

proud. They are hotel people now. They know

fireplace are mix-and-match furniture from

how to deal with a guest. They have a different

different countries, most of them custom-made

look on their lives and on life in general.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: iStar Operator: Salt Hotels Architecture: Handel Architects Interior Design: Anda Andrei Design www.asburyoceanclub.com

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Selina NQ1 MANCHESTER Latin American hospitality group Selina makes its UK debut with the refurbishment of a former hostel in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.

Words: Ben Thomas • Photography: © Meero

M

anchester’s Northern Quarter has carved

will continue to operate as an Irish American

a niche over the years for its distinct

pub, serving home comforts like Irish lamb

bohemian culture, with an array of

stew and hosting a range of live acoustic bands;

gastropubs, artisan coffee shops and vintage

while at Holdfast, Selina has staked its claim

stores becoming communal haunts for creative

on Manchester’s nightlife scene with Cotton,

types. Looking to capitalise on the flourishing

a 200-capacity basement nightclub where DJs

neighbourhood with its own nomadic living

such as Juan Atkins, Bjarki, Dopplereffekt,

concept, Selina – a lifestyle, travel and hospitality

Headless Horseman and Teki Latex will play

platform founded by Israeli duo Rafael Museri

weekly sets. Adding to the socially focused offer

and Daniel Rudasevski in the Panamanian

is a new grab-and-go café serving time-poor

fishing town of Pedasí – has opened a Latin

commuters and coffee aficionados, as well as

American-inspired boutique hotel in the former

cocktail club Double Down, which is set to open

Hatters Hostel on St. Stephen’s Square.

in November as part of a collaboration with the

The acquisition of Hatters’ £30 million UK

European Bartender School.

portfolio not only sees the brand scoop up the

“Bringing Selina to Manchester was an

Hilton Street hostel, but also take over popular

exciting opportunity for us as it’s such a vibrant

NQ hangouts The Patron, Holdfast and Irish bar

city full of creativity, music, art and culture,”

The Corner Boy. The Patron has relaunched as

says Erwin de Jong Oliveira, Head of Country

on-site restaurant Wilson’s Social – named after

UK for Selina. “The aim was to blend our Latin

British record label owner Tony Wilson – and

American roots with the rich history of the city,

celebrates the city’s vibrant music scene while

infusing the aesthetics together to create a hub

offering an internationally-inspired menu; The

for creatives and like-minded communities who

Corner Boy has undergone a soft makeover and

are aligned with Selina’s values.”

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The hotel’s artwork celebrates the spirit of Manchester and features local heroes such as mathematician and computer scientist Alan Turing, reimagined with a Latin American flavour

Tasked with devising a scheme that channels

we incorporated a number of references to the

Manchester’s creative spirit but with a touch of

city such as hexagons, fabrics and other locally

Latin American flavour, interior designer Lorna

inspired decorative elements.”

Keller collaborated with local artisans to source

Upstairs, each of the hotel’s 37 uniquely

artwork and materials that would bring the

designed private rooms, suites and shared

historic Victorian building to life, enlisting the

accommodations have been given a distinctly

‘Now I Make’ workshop to repurpose existing

bohemian feel with lush green plants, antiques

furniture and commissioning wall art of famous

and repurposed furniture combined with locally

British names like Alan Turing and Morrissey.

inspired artwork and quirky Latin American

“The interiors at Selina Manchester feature

touches. Dormitory-style rooms feature bunk

a range of old, new and recycled elements.

beds equipped with USB plugs and personal

We wanted to create a warm, welcoming

lockers, while private suites are kitted out with

environment using wood that was renovated

their own kitchen, lounge area and cosy beds

with modern colours and antique details,” she

from Hypnos. True to its focus on sociability

explains, confirming that Selina always takes

and community, Selina has also introduced a

inspiration from its locations when designing a

common room where guests can socialise, read,

new property, blending together common brand

cook and watch films thanks to a projector

features with a strong individual relationship to

screen and snug movie theatre.

the surrounding area.

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Extending its communal reach further, the

“The style that we chose for Selina NQ1 was

hotel has initiated a programme of specially

industrial-vintage and our main concept was

curated activities and experiences for guests and

‘the hive’, as it represents the character of

locals, including monthly drag brunches titled

Manchester. Without falling into the obvious,

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Donna Trump, and a weekly Matter of Record

Since opening its first hotel in the Panamanian

night hosted by NTS DJ and Piccadilly Records’

surf town of Venao back in 2014, Selina has gone

Kickin’ Pigeon, where vinyl lovers from across

on to establish itself in the Americas, mainland

the city can come together to listen to their

Europe and now the UK. The Latin American

favourite artists and hear from special guests.

start-up is showing no signs of slowing and

Furthermore, in-keeping with Manchester’s

having just opened Selina Birmingham in the

reputation as the largest silicon suburb in the

city’s Jewellery Quarter, it has now set its sights

UK outside of London, Selina NQ1 will soon be

on London, Brighton and Liverpool, as well as a

introducing a custom-built co-working space to

second outpost in Manchester on Newton Street.

support home-grown enterprise – which comes

The group has undoubtedly made an impression

as good news to the city’s mounting number of

on NQ1 residents thus far, so let’s hope that its

freelancers and creatives.

next property can follow suit.

For Oliveira, the focus is on inclusivity and

“Choosing to open our first UK property

creating a safe space for those living and

in Manchester over London was a conscious

working in the district: “Selina as a brand is

decision and we’re thrilled that it has been

all about creating meaningful connections

received so well by the community,” Oliveira

and shared experiences, and our Manchester

concludes. “We’re also really excited about

property is no different,” he notes. “By

what’s happening in the city right now

programming such events, workshops and gigs,

with collectives like HomoElectric and The

we can bring together guests and locals alike to

Warehouse Project, which are driving an influx

create a cultural hub for artists, creatives and

of creatives and like-minded communities who

the LGBTQ community.”

are aligned with Selina’s values.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: Selina Architecture / Interior Design: In-house design team Main Contractor: McCabe McGinn www.selina.com

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15/08/2019 16:47

Alex LAKE ZURICH Campbell Gray Hotels adds to its portfolio with a villa on the lake concept inspired by its surroundings.

Words: Donna Salek Photography: © James McDonald

O

ften thought of solely as a financial

matter of feet from the jetty – locally-based

hub, Zürich has long been mistaken as

Marazzi + Paul Architekten were granted

a destination primarily for travellers

permission to extend. Working closely with

on business. Although indisputably a place of

owners Corim AG and consultancy HoCoSo

great corporate significance, the city has plenty

on feasibility, concept development and

to offer the leisure traveller, with its charming

operator selection, the team has refurbished

old town, rich arts and culture and growing

and expanded the former property to create a

dining scene. The natural surroundings of the

new destination that appeals to both those on

city are something to be marvelled at too; the

business and those visiting for leisure.

serene expanse of Lake Zürich is set against the

Marazzi + Paul retained and restored the

backdrop of the Swiss Alps, and it’s here that

original 1950s façade, seamlessly adding a

Gordon Campbell Gray has opened the latest

contemporary stone and glass structure to house

property of his growing hotel collection.

the new facilities. “The idea was to create a hotel

With a prime position right on the water’s

that looks like a villa on the lake,” explains the

edge, Alex is conceived as a villa on the lake,

studio’s co-founder Renato Marazzi. However

where sophisticated interiors complement

the proximity to the water brought its own

spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

set of challenges, and significant structural

This could well be the last development of its

reinforcement was required to turn their vision

kind following the introduction of stricter

into a reality.

regulations that limit new construction here.

Led by clean architectural lines with plenty

The rules state that no building can be within

of floor-to-ceiling windows, Marazzi + Paul

20 metres of the waterfront, but thanks to the

sought to create a visual connection with the

presence of an existing hotel on site – just a

locale. “The main inspiration is the lake itself,

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Maritime elegance permeates the hotel interiors through the use of navy and white colour palettes together with soft oak timber and brass detailing

the hotel’s own marina and the views to the

from the reception area into the lobby lounges

surrounding mountains,” notes Marazzi.

and through to The Boathouse bar. Pale wooden

“Inside, boat-inspired elements such as its

flooring and joinery radiate warmth, whilst

lighting, timber floor and cabinetry work

stone walls, white marble-topped tables and

are intended to create a connection with the

Scandi-style furnishings incorporate plush,

landscape, while warm materials evoke the

high-quality materials into the scheme. “Given

feeling of a private home.”

the hotel’s location, we wanted to bring a

Campbell Gray Hotels was appointed operator

nautical feel to the interiors, as though you’re

in 2018, and subsequently worked closely with

living on the water,” Campbell Gray continues,

the team on the design scheme. In comparison

adding that the hotel even has its own boat – a

to the group’s other properties such as Le

stylish XO 270 – to transport guests to and from

Gray in Beirut, The Machrie on Islay and The

the city. This maritime elegance permeates the

Merchant House in Manama – where vibrant

hotel interiors through the use of navy and

artworks and bold installations take centrestage

white colour palettes together with soft oak

– Alex is somewhat minimal. Creative direction

timber and brass detailing.

was handed over to London-based studio Brady

The bar is Art Deco in style, combining a soft

Williams, who intentionally opted for a pared-

pistachio-coloured backdrop and matching

back scheme to maximise the lake views. “The

leather bar stools with a veined marble

brief we gave Brady Williams was for calm,” says

countertop, more metal hardware and globe-

Gordon Campbell Gray. “Normally I inject a lot

shaped light fixtures supplied by Chelsom – who

of colour and we have always worked on having

also provided bespoke fittings throughout the

a vibrant art collection, so in comparison, Alex

hotel. At the heart of its F&B programme, The

is very subdued. We wanted to keep it peaceful.”

Boathouse restaurant serves a menu of locally

As a result, the art on display throughout Alex

sourced seasonal produce in a space surrounded

is minimalist and abstract, created by a host of

by floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic

Western and indigenous contemporary artists

lake views. Oak flooring continues throughout,

from Italy, Portugal, Serbia, USA and from the

whilst wooden and Aegean blue leather chairs

Zulu people of South Africa.

alongside booths upholstered in grey knitted

Upon entry, an open-plan ground floor leads

094

fabric are set at marble-topped tables. When

095

asked what he wanted to achieve with the dining

visitors, and bathrooms with cobalt and dove

offer, Campbell Gray reveals that attracting

grey tiling are accessorised with hints of brass

locals was just as important as appealing to

to add further nautical touches. Ranging in size

guests. “We wanted to make sure that the public

from studio to penthouse, every suite is spacious

areas would be busy,” he explains. “With every

and comprises floor-to-ceiling French windows

hotel we open, we create spaces where locals like

that maximise natural daylight and open onto

to go.” And they do. Stepping outside, it is not

balconies overlooking the lake.

unusual to find the hotel terrace buzzing with

A luxury contemporary hotel like Alex is

those from the surrounding neighbourhood,

not a common find on Lake Zürich, and given

enjoying al fresco drinking and dining –

the restraints on construction in the region,

complete with firepit and blankets through the

it seems there may not be anything similar to

winter season. The design outside aligns with

emerge in the foreseeable future. “This hotel

that inside, and the addition of patio armchairs

is quite unique,” concludes Campbell Gray.

with shells woven from brown rope give another

“Switzerland is a traditional country and so to

subtle nod to the seafaring motif.

do anything like this here is different. We didn’t

The hotel’s 44 guestrooms follow a soothing

want the hotel to be too old-fashioned or too

ambiance, with Brady Williams opting for

modern. We just wanted to keep it clean-cut,

quality finishes in calming colourways.

elegant and sophisticated.”

Comfortable furniture and natural materials such as stone and timber once again connect guests to their surroundings, simultaneously creating a warm, residential feel. Dark blue kitchenettes in each room cater to long-stay

096

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Corim AG Operator: Campbell Gray Hotels Architecture: Marazzi + Paul Architekten Interior Design: Brady Williams Landscaping: Atelier Verde www.campbellgrayhotels.com

Savoy Palace FUNCHAL Nini Andrade Silva looks to the natural beauty of Madeira to design a new flagship for Portuguese operator Savoy Signature.

Words: Catherine Martin • Photography: © Henrique Seruca

I

f you’re from the UK or Germany, Madeira was likely the place that your grandparents holidayed; the year-round mild climate, quaint old town and relaxed pace a popular

choice amongst the over-60s. While this demographic has been the making of tourism here, Discover Madeira – the island’s promotion bureau – is keen to show that there’s plenty on offer for all generations, with beautiful beaches, boat trips and vineyard tours as well as hiking, mountain biking and, for the more adventurous, canyoning, making for a diverse destination. And despite its proximity to Africa – the archipelago is closer to Morocco than to Portugal – direct flights from London on British Airways mean it’s only a short hop across the North Atlantic.

Madeira’s accommodation offer is diversifying too, with boutique hotels and budget options adding to the mix of guesthouses and grand dames. At the forefront is homegrown group Savoy Signature, which operates a collection of hotels across the island, from the classic Royal Savoy in Funchal, to the contemporary Saccharum resort along the coast in Calheta. Its latest opening brings something altogether new to Madeira, and stands as a bold flagship for a group that is committed to the prosperity of the island.

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099

Located on a central avenue overlooking the ocean, Savoy Palace occupies the site of the former Classic Savoy, a Madeira institution that first opened its doors in 1912. The hotel’s demolition in 2008 was a controversial move, particularly amongst locals who spent decades in awe of the property, but serious structural issues meant developers had little choice but to start again from scratch. The new incarnation is a bold addition to the skyline; a gently curving structure with floor-to-ceiling glazing across its 17 storeys. Inside, the legacy of the

The lobby is dominated by a monumental chandelier, suspended over a bespoke carpet by Portuguese rug-maker Ferreira de SĂĄ, which is itself a work of art

Classic Savoy lives on, with the aesthetic a contemporary take on the history and traditions for which the island is known.

Interiors are designed by Nini Andrade Silva, herself an advocate for Madeira having been born in Funchal and selecting it as the location for her own design centre, an exhibition space and restaurant that showcases the connection between the island and her works. For Savoy Palace, Andrade Silva worked in partnership with RH+ Arquitectos, continuing a collaboration that began with the design of Saccharum. While Saccharum is inspired by Madeira’s cultivation of sugar cane, Savoy Palace celebrates the

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Nini Andrade Silva Design | Savoy Palace Photography

Y

Lobby Staircase - Savoy Palace Tribute Cosmopolitan Resort | Madeira Island, Portugal

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102

natural beauty of the island, as well as the

breakfast buffet at Orchidaceae Atelier. Living

heritage of what stood before.

plantlife is in abundance too; palms, ferns

In harmony with the Classic Savoy’s heyday,

and tropical flora permeate outdoor spaces,

interiors are influenced by the Belle Epoque

climbers cloak the façade, and even the rooftop

period, with ornate detailing and romantic

is planted with trees – in total, Savoy Palace

colourways making regular appearances

boasts 23,000m2 of gardens.

throughout. The lobby is dominated by a

The great outdoors have also inspired the

monumental chandelier – a particularly

deign of the spa, one of the largest in Europe

proud moment for Andrade Silva – creating

with 11 treatment rooms, sauna, steam room,

a memorable first impression and bringing

experiential showers and large hot tub. A

drama to the double-height space. To the rear, a

darkened tunnel – just like those carved through

sweeping staircase is wrapped in ornately carved

the mountainous landscape – marks the

balustrade panels inspired by the patterns of

beginning of the spa circuit and leads to a heated

Madeira’s delicate embroidery, and at its foot,

swimming pool with the wow factor. Overhead,

a bespoke carpet by Portuguese rug-maker

an undulating ceiling in brilliant green mimics

Ferreira de Sá is itself a work of art.

the tree canopy, while water trickles from a

The influence of Madeira’s volcanic landscape

feature wall depicting the island’s cascadas. Its

as well as the nation’s vast plantations of cork

levadas make an appearance too, with the spa’s

trees can be seen in the surfaces and finishes,

foot bath inspired by the network of irrigation

and references to the nearby botanical gardens

channels that now serve as hiking trails. For

abound. A chandelier in the shape of a flower in

the relaxation room, Andrade Silva transports

bloom presides over Hibiscus Restaurant while

guests to Madeira’s Laurissilva Forest, the

delicate orchid petals seemingly float over the

UNESCO World Heritage Site that occupies a

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fifth of the island. A solid tree trunk serves as

range of facilities on offer as well as the clever

a central focal point, with daybeds around its

segmentation of larger spaces mean that

perimeter positioned to gaze up at the foliage.

there’s opportunities for both socialising and

For those who prefer the real thing, there’s

solitude. There’s conference facilities for up

plenty of sunbeds dotted between the palm

to 1,400 delegates, six swimming pools and

trees of the outdoor swimming pool, and up on

eight restaurants and bars, not to mention the

the rooftop, where an adults-only infinity pool

exclusive rooftop lounge and terrace reserved

offers spectacular views to the mountains.

for suite guests only.

Guestrooms also make the most of the views,

But for Savoy Signature, it’s not only about

with most featuring a sea-facing balcony and

creating a world-class resort for travellers;

floor-to-ceiling windows. The look is elegant

the group is committed to having a positive

and sophisticated, with a cream colour palette

impact on its home nation. The design team

providing contrast to the floors below. Intricate

worked with a number of Portuguese brands

fretwork frames the bed, and reading lights from

and manufacturers to furnish the hotel, and

Astro are thoughtfully built-in to the headboard.

Savoy Signature has aspirations to create a new

Made-to-measure furniture, customised fabrics

hub for locals, having acquired an area to the

and pieces from Andrade Silva’s product design

rear of the property. There’s also plans for a

portfolio – including the characteristic pebble-

millennial-focused hotel with the ongoing

shaped basin – furnish the spaces, with larger

refurbishment of the nearby Madeira Regency

rooms benefiting from freestanding bathtubs

Club – just another of Savoy Signature’s efforts

and separate lounge areas.

to build a destination that appeals to all.

Despite the large key count – 352 guestrooms in addition to 226 apartments – the wide

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EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: AFA Group Operator: Savoy Signature Architecture: Saraiva + Associados Interior Design: Nini Andrade Silva; RH+ Architects www.savoysignature.com

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23.04.19.17kw 15:34

The Stratford Hotel LONDON Harry Handelsman’s third London hotel marks the introduction of both a distinctive new building and a bold take on hospitality to the UK capital.

Words: Kristofer Thomas Photography: © Rich Stapleton (unless stated)

H

arry Handelsman – CEO of Manhattan

its predecessors, but instead seeks to create its

Loft Corporation – is on something

own; the structure opens as Newham’s tallest

of a winning streak when it comes to

tower, and perhaps its most eye-catching too

London hotels. It started with the renovation

– a double cantilevered, 42-storey modernist

of the former Midland Grand in 2004, where

spire clad in serrated terracotta and glass.

the German-born entrepreneur oversaw

Comprising the 145-key The Stratford Hotel

the reimagining of the historic St. Pancras

and 248 residences above, the project draws

frontispiece, working with architects Aedas to

prominent influence from the long-stay New

restore the Gilbert Scott-designed icon of gothic

York hotels of the 1950s and a ‘vertical living’

revival to a staple of the capital’s hospitality

concept championed by Handelsman. More than

scene. Then came Chiltern Firehouse, a similarly

simply a marketing catchphrase, the concept

grand reinstatement of the Grade-II listed

sees designers Signe Bindslev Henriksen and

Marylebone Fire Station in collaboration with

Peter Bundgaard Rützou – co-founders of

owner André Balazs, and still the namedrop

Danish studio Space Copenhagen – thread a

of choice for the city’s A-list four years since

prominent social philosophy across all elements

opening. And now, following a decade-long

of the property’s design.

process, the opening of his latest effort, The Stratford Hotel, rounds out a trifecta.

Set across the first seven floors of the Skidmore,

Owings

&

“As we worked more and more with this phrase it became a way of thinking about the design of the project,” Rützou comments. “The

Merrill-designed

idea of vertical living is very much connected to

Manhattan Loft Gardens in the heart of an

the tower itself; the long-lease residences are

emerging Stratford district, the property may

merged with hotel activity, and the transitional

not hold the glittering historic credentials of

guest interacts with an existing group of

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residents – it is the beauty of a hotel, and this mixture

Rützou adds. “That central plaza is the identity of a

of people has been a really effective way to create a

place, and the lobby here sort of became our notion of

community around the project.”

that – internally for the building, but with aspirations

Guests are introduced to the concept by way of a

108

of reaching out into the wider area as well.”

triple-height lobby, wherein the designers looked to

With much of the area surrounding the hotel still

city squares and historic public plazas for inspiration.

emerging from a decade of development following

Working with British manufacturer Benchmark, the

the 2012 Olympics, the project – situated steps from

studio designed a series of benches, banquettes and

Stratford International – seeks not only to create a

individual seats to populate the open-plan central

community within its walls, but establish itself as the

space, whilst a statement fireplace anchors the room

social core and anchor of a rare pocket of 21st century

– a nod to ancient instinctual remnants of ancestors

London not yet completely transformed. However,

gathering around fire. Everything else – a brasserie,

with little around the site in terms of established

bar and mezzanine balcony overlooking the scene

visual inspiration, Space Copenhagen’s signature

– hug the edges, allowing space for interaction and

Poetic Modernist aesthetic is given room to breathe,

communication to unfold uninterrupted.

and the designers afforded the freedom to focus on

Hanging above is Paul Cocksedge’s Murmuration –

the interplay between material, colour and shape

a large-scale installation formed of suspended curls of

as opposed to repeatedly calling attention to local

black and white resembling a migration of birds flying

cultural references.

over – whilst reception and check-in is kept behind

This is best demonstrated in guestrooms, where the

this space so as not to intrude, or else immediately

scheme across all seven categories is stripped back to

signal the presence of a hotel.

a few key items and interventions – a chair, a table

“We thought a lot about how communities work,

or desk, a plant, a lamp – then curated to interact as

and about what makes people feel like they belong,”

a coherent whole. Understated accents of stone and

Crawford Collection by Tom Fereday Australia Belgium Canada China

Denmark Finland France Germany

Hong Kong Italy India Indonesia

www.stellarworks.com Ireland Japan Lebanon Malaysia

Mexico Netherlands New Zealand Norway

Philippines Poland Portugal Russia

Singapore Spain South Korea Sweden

Switzerland Taiwan Thailand United Arab Emirates

Ukraine United Kingdom United States

© Sam A. Harris

The triple-height lobby features the Gleda Chair from British manufacturer Benchmark alongside Stellar Works dining seats – both designed by Space Copenhagen

marble cladding fixtures connect with shades of

now seeing that it is becoming more and more

cool grey leather, whilst pastel red upholstery

a value package which resonates across borders

juxtaposes with the pop of green plantlife for

to connect people, so the inside belongs to the

a moment of vibrancy. The desk and chair,

people, whilst the building is for the skyline.”

sourced from Stellar Works’ Slow collection –

Arranged to look in on an atrium containing

designed by Space Copenhagen to infuse classic

another impressive installation in the form of

Danish visuals with Japanese values – adds a

a specially commissioned six-tonne moving

touch of bespoke precision.

liquid sculpture by Petroc Sesi, or outwards

Larger options are equally streamlined, laid

to views of the city, guestrooms continue the

out like apartments to stretch the minimalism

precedent of bespoke pieces set below; the

across wider spaces, yet never feeling empty

furnishings, bathroom vanities, mirrors and

or bare. Marble bathrooms are clad with

tables all of the studio’s own design. This

slabs chosen and sourced for the distinctive

bespoke coherence continues throughout the

movement of grain across their surfaces, which

F&B spaces punctuating the structure; the casual

spreads across the space as if in place of a

mezzanine eatery, bar and co-working space

swirling wallpaper pattern.

featuring a smaller-scale fireplace overlooking

“It’s a very masculine building, with a lot of

its lobby counterpart, and Allegra on the 7th floor

sharpness to it,” notes Bindslev Henriksen. “But

incorporating an expansive custom-made bar,

it is a beautiful piece of architecture, and we tried

along with further Benchmark collaborations

to find a counterbalance and a layer of warmth

including dining tables with Montpellier stone

and intimacy within. As a studio we have an

tops and brass edges, and host stations in

appetite for natural materials, and whilst there

distinctively stained tambour cladding.

is the practice for that out in Scandinavia, we’re

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One of the few explicit links to Manhattan

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© Jan Baldwin

Loft Co’s previous projects, Allegra is lead

beyond, and transcends the area in a way. There

by Patrick Powell, the former head chef at

are elements that belong to a locale, but also

Chiltern Firehouse, who will seek to establish

ideals of the travelling lifestyle; anyone who

Handelsman’s vision as an F&B destination on

travels, for either fun or work, should be able

par with the Marylebone outpost. Serving up

to pick up on things that relate to the notion of

European cuisine with an old-school twist, the

travel, both local and global.”

space features flooring assembled from three

And so in an increasingly global London,

different shades of warm stone, along with gilded

The Stratford Hotel has placed itself as

bar shelves and a canopy to the plant life hinted

beacon, spiritually through the combination of

at in guestrooms. The lengthy bar – designed

Handelsman’s vision and Space Copenhagen’s

with smooth indents for champagne buckets –

design, but literally too; stepping into the

follows the curve of the space, and links to the

skyline with angular confidence at odds with

exterior terrace as a circuit. Stepping outside,

other recent major newbuild projects.

guests will find a platform clad in timber slats

From Allegra’s exterior platform, or the

reminiscent of the building’s profile, countering

similarly styled Sky Terrace carved into the

the open-plan restaurant with smaller divisions

upper cantilever, the view is of a locale still

created by planters and a rhythm of trees.

growing. If all goes to plan, The Stratford

“When we began our work, the tower was

Hotel’s placing will be prescient, and when the

mostly defined, but we had an influence on

rest catches up, it will be in prime position as

some of the components within, and the

point of orbit for a new community.

creation of spaces that would be attractive for social encounters,” Rützou explains. “I think of it as an anchor point locally, but it also exists

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EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Manhattan Loft Corporation Developer: Harry Handelsman Operator: The Stratford Architecture: Skidmore, Owings & Merrill Interior Design: Space Copenhagen www.thestratford.com

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Sinner PARIS Tristan Auer reimagines a former Paris telecoms building as a seductive and mysterious boutique for Evok Hotels.

Words: Guy Dittrich Photography: © Nicolas Receveur (unless stated)

O

n the façade of a nondescript building,

Auer. “The whole project was fresh for me,”

on a narrow street in Le Marais, Paris,

Auer explains. “There was nothing to follow

is a strip of red light. Discreet it may

here. I had freedom to propose something

be, but once seen it is difficult to see anything

totally different.”

else. The thin red line is the visual identifier of

This freedom was to reimagine a former

Sinner, a 43-room property from luxury owner-

Orange Telecom office building from the 1970s.

operator Evok Hotels.

Demolished internally, the basement was then

Established in 2014, Evok is the business of

dug out for an open restaurant and kitchen.

investor Pierre Bastid and developers Romain

Above are five floors of guestrooms as well

Yzerman and Emmanuel Sauvage. “Evok defines

as a small spa, L’Ablutio, with a petite pool

a collection of luxuries,” explains Sauvage.

evocatively illuminated by candlelight.

“Each destination offers a different variety

As a starting point, Auer took his 1970s

of luxury.” He describes the classic sense of

childhood, and in particular the home of

the word at Nolinksi Paris, the exclusivity of

his grandparents as inspiration, all wooden

Hameau de la Volière in Courchevel and the

beams and stained glass. The entrance, now

recently-opened Cour des Vosges, while the

encapsulated in a copper-clad façade, has a

Philippe Starck-designed Brach offers a more

floor-to-ceiling window of oversized coloured

casual definition.

glass panes through which a moody light is

“The

design

is

open

to

different

thrown into the hotel’s lobby lounge. Auer was

interpretations,” ventures Sauvage of the

inspired by the massive concrete silo project,

unconventional and quirky Sinner – a medley

La Fábrica, of Ricardo Bofill in the suburbs of

of religious heritage and risqué reminders

western Barcelona when contemplating this

wrapped up in a bold, daring design by Tristan

large, now white volume that combines the

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Sinner features an interplay between light and darkness, mixing playful religious iconography with softer moments of luxury and comfort

street-level lounge and bar with the adjacent

hotel reference those on the façade of Bofill’s

sunken restaurant and its high, beamed ceiling.

house and add to the monastic aesthetic. The

“These public spaces are like a stage, a place to

bar and lounge area are well used but are more

promote yourself,” he notes of this soft space

transitory spaces.

wrapped in wood. “So I wanted calm elements

This open lobby also sees the first of Auer’s

to allow guests to show their own personality.”

holistic experiential details. Scent diffusers

And certainly the evening crowd developing

release a woody leather smoke, which at once

through dinner on a Friday night is one of the

is omnipresent but not overpowering. The haze

conscientiously well-dressed. The draw is the

in the air creates a very special, almost secretive

ethnic fusing of tribal foods from North Africa

atmosphere. Following check-in guests are

and South America by chef Adam Bentalha.

accompanied by staff in dark monk-like habits,

There is a variety of seating – high stools

complete with peaked hoods similar to the white

looking into the kitchen, banquettes in mustard

bathroom robes found in the guestrooms.

yellow and robust burgundy, and larger tables

To one side, a screened confessional box, now

and chairs from the Warren Platner wire-

converted to a small work station, and on the

framed series by Knoll. More real wax candles

other a small ‘crypt’ locked with a steel-barred

on tabletop candelabras are joined by beautiful

jail door. Through curtains comes the dark,

artefacts and a geometric chandelier by Auer,

wood-lined couloir of the lift lobby, where a

hanging beneath silver-leafed coffered ceilings.

series of metal Magritte-style smoking pipes

The white space of the restaurant is

hang from chains – pipe being the French slang

accentuated by drapes on ceilings that run to

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for fellatio.

hang in front of large windows screening a rear

This intertwining of religious and sexual

light well. Arched elements throughout the

connotations continues, tongue-in-cheek. Book

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collections in guestrooms curated by Anatole Š Guillaume de Laubier

The white space of the restaurant is accentuated by drapes on ceilings that run to hang in front of large windows screening a rear light well

Deschy, include photo books of the Avedon and Newton ilk, as well as other saucy titles such as Lady Chatterley’s Lover and volumes from the Marquis de Sade. Open the wardrobe and, lit by pendant lamps with kitsch opaque glass shades, guests will find a horse whip alongside the shoe horn and a framed historic pornographic postcard or similar. There is lubricating gel alongside the shampoo in the bathroom.

Light religious irreverence is seen in the use of patterned confessional screening for lift ceilings and air conditioning panels. Guestrooms have a useful deep shelf with a hollow hemisphere carved out to mimic a font. And the black wood casework, all new and designed by Auer, is nevertheless reminiscent of heritage Spanish quasi-religious furniture. Full-length altar-like cloths drape softly over bedside tables.

Dark corridors are policed by handsome blood red doors with arched architraves, historic raised grills covering viewers and hefty hand-shaped

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© Guillaume de Laubier

knockers. These open to bright guestrooms.

These touches of real delight are matched

Pinks and ochres are subtly introduced by

by the absolute faultless workmanship, found

way of marshmallow-like Mimi armchairs by

in the exact shadow gaps between the raised

Moroso and Brabantia bins in bathrooms, as

panels within coffered ceilings, the seamless

well as ochre clay tiles for headboards and on

variegated cork wallcovering in the bathrooms,

the corner reveal on the divan cover.

and showers tiled to perfection incorporating

Auer has designed the bright red standard lamp for Pulsatil and borrows from the

the bold red stripe – a reminder of Sinner’s visual identity.

Bouroullec Brothers their Piani table lamp for

Sinner offers the saucy and the suggestive.

Flos, both with distinctively mod’ish 1970s

Putting these to one side, this is a super

appeal and charm.

well thought through design with surprises

There are surprises galore in guestrooms

and delights at every turn. The potential for

- think retro vinyl record players and Loewe

romance is high but this is rather more due to

TVs, beautiful baby-pink mohair blankets

the subtle persuasive boudoir sensibilities of

sandwiched between two sheets, underfloor

Auer’s design.

heating and nightlights integrated discreetly into skirtings. A trance inducing all-red corridor leads to the only suite that is styled with references to Karl Lagerfeld; a circular bed, playfully surrounded by an array of vertical, chrome columns and a deep red bathtub with mirrored vinyl stretched across the ceiling. Sexy and thoughtful design.

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EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Pierre Bastid Developer: Romain Yzerman and Emmanuel Sauvage Operator: Evok Hotels Architecture and Interior Design: Tristan Auer Project Manager: Emmanuel Sauvage www.sinnerparis.com

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Finca Serena MALLORCA Único Hotels follows the principles of wabi-sabi to create a farmhouse retreat in rural Mallorca.

Words: Regina Winkle-Bryan • Photography: Courtesy of Único Hotels

I

t’s early morning and the bells on the sheep tinkle as they move out to pasture. Fields of lavender are tucked between orchards of lemon, 10 hectares of vineyards and over 800

olive trees. The land here is dry and rocky, yet abundant with the nature of the Mediterranean. In total, the Finca Serena estate is spread across 100 acres, criss-crossed with hiking trails and romantic vista points. At its heart, a 13th-century

stone farmhouse is flanked by a cobblestone courtyard, where guests enjoy breakfast and lunch with a view.

It is here, amongst the crumbling stone walls and flowering bougainvillea, close to the village of Montuïri, that Único Hotels has opened a country retreat. Founded by Pau Guardans, the group has built a reputation for independent luxury hotels, taking on historical buildings with soul, personality and character, and converting them into a lifestyle offer. Joining Grand Hotel Central in Barcelona and Hotel Único Madrid, Finca Serena is once again independently designed, taking its rural setting as inspiration.

Through an arch in the farmhouse’s stone façade is the lobby, with multiple sofas in soft greys, beige and tan cosying up to a massive fireplace used for cooking centuries ago. Rustic wooden coffee and end tables sourced from

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around mainland Spain complete a countrychic aesthetic, as do woven jute rugs covering stone floors.

Local architect Sergi Bastidas worked with Pilar Garcia-Nieto, director of interior design for all Único Hotels, selecting a palette of soothing hues and natural textures, such as the 100% linen soft furnishings from Barcelonabased fabric house Lamadrid. The result is a retreat that demands tranquility and a slower, healthier pace in addition to a reverence for the land surrounding it. “When we dreamt up our new hotel in Mallorca, the ideas came naturally from the island’s calmness and charm,” says

Rustic wooden coffee tables sourced from around mainland Spain complete a country-chic aesthetic, as do woven jute rugs covering stone floors

Bastidas. “We decided to bring these concepts together in an easygoing approach, through simplicity and a taste for the authentic.”

In the afternoon, guests loll in the lounge chairs and sunbeds encircling the swimming pool, taking advantage of Mallorca’s 300 days of annual sunshine. From the pool and courtyard, 25 deluxe guestrooms fan out. Bastidas and Garcia-Nieto clad rooms in the same restful colours as the lobby, and looked to the principles of wabi-sabi to create perfectly imperfect spaces. Beds are topped with white sheets and duvets in addition to sand-hued linen blankets and accent pillows. Walls of windows allow light

124

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to enter, but cream and beige linen curtains can

old storage area,” explains Bastidas. “Without

shut out the sun at siesta time.

making any major changes to the building, we

The designers opted to create shelving and

opened up the walls by adding new windows

closets in natural oak. Walls are whitewashed

with views over the stunning surrounding

concrete ending in gray concrete floors. All

landscape, in addition to an indoor swimming

fixtures are black, as are metal bedside tables

pool, fireplace, yoga room and treatment-

– a colour chosen to create contrast with

fitness areas.”

warmer tones. Behind sliding farmhouse doors

As the sun sinks behind the mountains,

are bathrooms clad in black and grey. Some

Restaurant Jacaranda comes alive, flickering

feature Kaldewei tubs, while others offer a more

with candles and subdued music. Diners opt

compact shower option.

to sit on the back patio when the weather is

Most

guestrooms

open

onto

private

fine beside the calming splash of a courtyard

cobblestone terraces set with Nordic House

fountain. Local dishes made from homegrown

EcoChairs in addition to a bistro table perfect

ingredients flow from the kitchen. Deep in the

for a room-service breakfast. Awnings with

countryside, the skies are darker here, revealing

ceiling fans offer respite from the midday sun.

old constellations forgotten by city dwellers.

The seclusion of these little patios adds to their

The night sounds begin and all seems soft and

charm, tucked behind rows of lemon trees or

peaceful.

low fences.

The hotel spa is open late into the dusky evening, with lounge chairs lined up on a cobblestone sundeck making for a superb perch to chill post rub down. “The spa was originally an

126

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: Único Hotels Architecture: Bastidas Architecture Interior Design: Pilar Garcia-Nieto, Único Hotels Main Contractor: Electro Hidráulica www.fincaserenamallorca.com

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Six Senses Krabey Island CAMBODIA A new player in the Cambodian Riviera plays gentle host to its idyllic island locale.

Words: Luo Jingmei • Photography: © Kiattipong Panchee

A

pproaching Krabey Island by speedboat, it’s hard to make out any signs of manmade intervention. A bulbous crop of forested land peeking above the still

canvas of ocean, it is only on nearing the jetty of Six Senses Krabey Island that a rectilinear volume of dark basalt stone and golden local koki timber provides the prelude to a subtle, well-conceived architectural scheme unifying itself with the locale’s tones and textures.

Six Senses Krabey Island is situated in Cambodia’s Koh Rong archipelago, reached via a ten-minute car ride from Sihanouk International Airport and a brief boat commute from a private jetty on the Ream mainland. This route sidesteps the now dishevelled casino- and constructionladen Sihanoukville main town – the antithesis of the resort’s calm. The arrival of Six Senses represents renewed interest in this beauteous region, touted as Cambodia’s ‘French Riviera’, whose potential was stunted by years of strife and underdeveloped infrastructure.

The newcomer undoubtedly sets the bar high, with sophisticated design and modern comforts rooted strongly in context. 40 villas and an array of public amenities dot the island, and the need to buggy around allows guests an understanding of the rugged terrain while taking in local inhabitants that include hornbills, butterflies and monkeys.

The architecture of the villas parallels the jetty’s arrival block, with a subdued material palette receding the boxy forms into the shadows of the jungle, describes Olga Pavlytchenko, Project Assistant at RPB Investment Co., which owns the property and conceived its architecture.

129

Public spaces are inspired by local fishing villages and feature installations of fish swimming overhead, as well as decorative light shades in the form of nets

Floor-to-ceiling glazing offers generous

facility building, representing a fisherman’s

indoor-outdoor encounters, while the slate-

house writ large. The lobby lounge decked

decked private pool steps down from the

with sofa partitions and wind-swung pendants

villa following the natural relief. Interiors are

woven from bamboo alludes to the space where

accented with textural and cultural narratives.

fishing nets are aired. Some steps down, the

“The design responds to Six Senses’ core

open-air Sunset Bar exudes the ambiance of a

values of being sensitive to locality, providing

veranda, where fishermen and their families

guests with unique and crafted experiences of

would socialise and make or repair nets. Here,

quirkiness and fun,” comments Bangkok-based

the imagery becomes literal, with an installation

interior design firm Dimensional Interpretation

of fish swimming overhead and trap-like

Studio (DIN Studio).

decorative lighting. Within the streamlined

Timber

wall

panelling

incorporating

functional components such as doors reference

form lend a human touch.

elements of traditional Cambodian houses,

Down another tier, the AHA Restaurant

and turquoise shades in the furnishings mirror

invites guests to dine on Pan-Asian cuisine

the scenery. The fluid lines of the Romdoul –

made from local produce in the inner sanctums

Cambodia’s national flower that is native to

of the fisherman’s house. Traditional balustrade

the island – are carved onto lighting fixtures,

patterns become wall features, ceilings are

bathrobe hooks and furniture legs, and unites

adorned with checked Khmer Krama scarf

with the water buffalo (Krabey means buffalo

fabrics and lighting fixtures are wrapped in

in the Khmer language) in an elegiac wall panel

sheer fabric like mosquito nets on bedframes.

artwork by Thai artist Ployroong Charurat.

This spatial storytelling continues at the main

130

shell, these intricate experiments of pattern and

At the building’s base, the ice-cream parlour is punctuated with shelves, whose vertically

131

132

exaggerated supports evoke the underside of

comments Pavlychenko. Inside, DIN Studio’s

the fisherman’s stilted house.

scheme sees undulating timber ceilings that

Elsewhere on the island, Tree Restaurant

replicate water ripples, walls coloured in

is enveloped in foliage and guests indulge in

the local indigo dye and timber structures

modern interpretations of Khmer-inspired

representing abstract air bubbles.

cuisine under Aromdee’s bamboo honeycomb

While many hotels trumpet sustainability as

ceiling panels accented with teardrop-shaped

a trend, Six Senses Krabey Island’s efforts are

lights that recall weaverbirds’ nests. “The

real. Aside from the prevalent use of sustainable

restaurant is small but we amplified its visual

materials, rooftops are camouflaged with

dimension by lighting the outside forest to

landscaping to cool interiors and solar panels on

equal the brightness of the interior and letting

the facility building will ideally generate 10% of

the light gradient toward the sea,” describes

the resort’s power by 2020. Resort programmes

Bangkok-based consultancy’s Managing

offer trips to the Earth Lab Sustainability Hub

Director Tippaya Prasertsuk on the energy-

and organic garden on the mainland, where one

efficient yet poetically attuned lighting scheme.

learns that a crystal water refinery produces the

The tale of the Khmer people’s relationship

resort’s drinking water, which are packed into

with water – commonly used in rituals and

recyclable glass bottles. Fruits and vegetables

2

cleansing ceremonies – is told at the 2,000m

are grown for the restaurants, and milk, cheese,

spa. Interlocking indoor and outdoor spaces are

eggs and honey are harvested from goats,

finished with stacked lava stone reminiscent

chickens and bees. Such dedicated directives

of the ancient Angkor Wat. “The idea was to

permeate all aspects of the resort, reflecting an

mitigate a large complex with smaller volumes

authenticity and sense of responsibility toward

that picturesquely ‘grow’ into the landscape,”

visitors and host.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: RPB Investment Co. Operator: Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas Architecture: RPB Investment Co. Interior Design: Dimensional Interpretation Studio Branding & Signage: Be>Our>Friend Lighting Design: Be-Lit www.sixsenses.com

IBIS Styles by UHS International x Philip Watts Design London, Gloucester Road uhs-group.com | 0330 1222 400

Four Seasons Astir Palace

T

ATHENS An iconic hideaway on the Athens Riviera is reborn, bringing local and international design talent to the Aegean.

Words: Abby Lowe Photography: © Ken Seet

here are few countries that can lay claim

was heading. It was an optimistic time, and

to a history as rich with myth and legend

Astir Palace reflected that.

as Greece. The so-called cradle of western

Situated on a pine-clad peninsula surrounded

civilisation is a living, breathing testament to

by the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea,

mankind’s achievements, to this day allowing

Astir Palace lies in the suburb of Vouliagmeni,

us to peer through a telescope that reveals

just 25 minutes south of the centre of Athens

yesteryear in all its beautiful, complex glory.

and the airport. This location rendered it both

For this reason, the past is fiercely revered in

convenient and covetable, so when it opened,

Greek culture – not only because it allows us to

fame took hold rapidly. During the golden era

learn from past lessons, but because it provides

of the 1960s, everyone from Aristotle Onassis

us with the foundation on which to build a solid,

and Jackie O to Brigitte Bardot, Frank Sinatra

lasting legacy.

and The Beatles passed through its doors, and

It’s with this in mind that Four Seasons has made its debut in Greece, having taken over the

its reputation as the darling of the globetrotting glitterati was cemented.

former Astir Palace Hotel and embarking on a

Yet it was upon the hearts of local Athenians

top-to-toe renovation. The resort originally

that the hotel made its biggest mark. Over

opened in 1961, and at the time was a bold,

the years it became an intrinsic part of many

post-war message of progression. As a tourism

family’s lives, which is why its closure in 2016

marketing tool, it was a conscious move away

hit hard, and why the announcement that the

from the traditional houses and quaint villages

hotel would reopen under the management of

for which the country was known, replaced

Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts was met with

instead with statement design that embodied a

some trepidation. Nevertheless, the €250m

growing sense of pride about where the country

investment – an amount that promised to

135

Public spaces include Pelagos, serving Greek fare with a twist, and chic Italian trattoria Mercato – both

by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio – as well as Aristotle’s, an elegant cigar lounge by Meyer Davis

136

transform every corner of the tripartite property

windows where the outside pours in. As light

–assuaged fears, and when Astir Palace reopened

streams through, it illuminates mirrored wall

this year as the first Four Seasons property in

panels that glitter with a similar playfulness

Greece, anxieties dissolved.

to the hotel’s jetsetting clientele – it’s a

Gratitude can be laid at the feet of the many

shamelessly glitzy space designed for mingling.

high-calibre teams involved in the renovation.

Meanwhile, spaces like Taverna 37 – a vibrant

From acclaimed Greek architects Aeter and

beachfront eatery – offer a low-key approach

K-Studio to international design partners

to socialising that’s more in tune with local

Meyer Davis and Martin Brudnizki – there

tradition and the pre-existing landscape.

was a mass effort in reviving, rather than

“A taverna is an in-between space,” explains

totally reimagining, the hotel’s former flair. So

Dimitris Karabatakis of K-Studio. “So we tried

much so that the three pillars of the complex –

to keep that lightness by merging it into the

Arion, Nafsika and the original bungalows – all

natural curve of the coastline. It doesn’t

look largely unchanged from the outside. The

compete with the bungalows above it, and that

interiors, however, have been totally refreshed,

allows people to form a connection with its

and while there are still obvious nods to its

simplicity.” The result is a contemporary take

heritage, there’s clear direction in heralding

on a classic, where draped pergolas provide

the hotel’s vision.

shade from the searing sun and traditional

Avra Lounge & Terrace for example, is one of

music bounces off copper-tinged bauxite. Fear

the bars that fell under Brudnizki’s remit, and

not, the Greek appreciation for food remains

acts as a vibrant social hub as well as a clear

untouched – you’re still not allowed to leave

celebration of the setting. Located in Nafsika,

the table until you’ve polished off every last

it’s a two-storey space with floor-to-ceiling

mouthful of dessert.

137

Elsewhere, Helios sits at the opposite end of

rooms to retire in. Here, technology merges

the resort, sandwiched between Nafsika and

seamlessly with luxe furnishings, sourced

the sea. Set back from a trio of pools topped

from an impressive roster of names including

by their own floating olive grove, it offers an

Bernhardt, Fil Doux and Preciosa, the latter

altogether different seaside ambience. “Resorts

supplying custom chandeliers for the suites.

are immersive experiences where you create

But what remains in the face of transformation

worlds within worlds,” Karabatakis affirms.

is a dedication to maintaining Astir Palace’s

“So at Helios, there’s a sharpness, a slickness.

cherished roots. There are over 2,000 works

We’re celebrating that it’s manmade, and that it

of contemporary Greek art hung on the walls

acts as a fade between building and sea.” This is

throughout the property, for example. And of

the hotel’s daytime hob-nobbing hub – a place

the 650 excellent staff, around 85% are Greek.

to see and be seen, preferably with an Aperol

For many, the essence of the hotel is grounded

Spritz in hand.

in their childhood and with that comes a duty

This theme of contrasting spheres continues

to maintain what made it special. “There’s a

throughout each of Astir Palace’s many

huge responsibility to work on a project like

communal spaces. From the yacht-inspired

this,” admits Karabatakis. “But when I came

decor of Pelagos, serving Greek fare with a

here with my parents I walked them through

twist, and Mercato, the chic Italian trattoria, to

what they knew very well a long time ago and

the casual insouciance of Astron Lounge and the

they were pleasantly surprised – they loved it.”

exclusivity of Aristotle’s, there is a spot for every

So just like that, an icon is reborn, and in the

whim. When fatigue sets in, the spa bedecked

process, an Adonis for modern times emerges.

in white marble provides sanctuary. And of course, there are 303 exquisitely conceived

138

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Operator: Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts Architecture: Aeter Architects Interior Design: Meyer Davis; Martin Brudnizki Design Studio; K-Studio Lighting Design: Lighting Design International Art Consultant: James Robertson Art Consultants Landscaping: Thomas Doxiadis Main Contractor: Aktor Project Manager: Hill International Procurement: The Parker Company www.fourseasons.com

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The World’s Largest Hotel Groups New data from Tophotelprojects shows the regional strongholds for the world’s largest hotel groups, with Marriott International leading the way in the Americas, whilst Hilton Worldwide and IHG compete for the top spot in Europe.

142

PROJECTS ROOMS

Marriott International

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EUROPE TOP 5 GROUPS

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Hilton Worldwide

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IHG

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Accor

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Marriott International

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Hyatt

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Marriott International

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IHG

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BUSINESS CENTRE

The intelligence source for the hotel investment community

IHG adds Mr & Mrs Smith

Capital Advisors USD300m for Six Senses Hotels

to our market share gains during the second

InterContinental Hotels Group has signed a

Resorts Spas at the beginning of this year.

quarter.”

partnership with Mr & Mrs Smith, which see

Keith Barr, IHG CEO, said: “This acquisition

The CEO also credited the addition of Small

IHG rewards club members able to earn and

continues the progress we’ve made against the

Luxury Hotels in part with the group’s pipeline

redeem points at over 500 new hotels.

strategic initiatives we outlined a year ago,

growth, with Hoplamazian adding: “The

The move was the latest in a series by the

which included a commitment to adding new

network effect of having such an intense focus

global branded hotel groups to use partnerships

brands in the fast-growing USD60bn luxury

on high-end customer and bringing together

to bolster their stables and offer loyalty

segment.”

the value proposition around the World of

Six Senses currently manages 16 hotels and

Hyatt through Small Luxury Hotels and the

At IHG, the partnership is due to begin early

resorts with 18 management contracts in its

other partnerships that we’ve got, that yields

next year, with the company commenting that

pipeline and a further 50 deals under active

an ability to actually impact the results of these

the partnership would more than double the

discussion. The transaction took IHG’s total

kinds of hotels, and that’s why I think we’re

number of luxury and boutique hotels which

portfolio of luxury hotels to 400 properties with

seeing some of the conversions that we’ve now

members could choose from.

108,000 rooms, out of a total portfolio of 5,518

signed.”

members greater choice.

Claire Bennett, CMO, IHG, said: “IHG’s

hotels with over 825,000 rooms.

HA PERSPECTIVE

exclusive partnership with Mr & Mrs Smith

The agreement between IHG and Mr & Mrs

illustrates the truly transformative travel we

Smith echoes the partnership agreed last

By Katherine Doggrell: As any of the large luxury

bring to our IHG Rewards Club members. This

year between Hyatt Hotels Corporation and

hotel owners will tell you, creating a high-end

loyalty partnership will allow our most loyal

Small Luxury Hotels, which the Hyatt loyalty

property is a massive effort. Marble to be mined, silk

guests to discover even more of the world

programme including more than 200 SLH

sheets to be teased out of worms, staff to be train in

with the most incredible and inspiring luxury

properties globally at which members can

the dark arts of psychic service. It’s not the same as

rewards.

redeem or earn points.

putting a budget hotel next to a petrol station.

“By bringing this spectacular collection of

SLH said the partnership had boosted

The large global hotel brands have got wise to the

award-winning hotels to our direct booking

reservations, while Hyatt members have wider

bother of luxury ownership a while back, although

channels, this partnership means members

choices. Italy, UK, France, China and Greece

they have yet to move as far as franchising other

can earn and redeem points in some of the

have been the most popular destinations

than in extreme cases. Which leaves them in a pickle

world’s most sought-after destinations – the

since the arrangement began in late 2018. At

with their luxury portfolios. It’s very hard to gain

perfect complement to IHG’s growing luxury

its second-quarter earnings, Hyatt said that

scale in a hurry. Yes, you can buy brands, as IHG and

and boutique hotel portfolio, which includes

over 96% of the hotels in the programme were

Accor have. But that can be a but costly, particularly

InterContinental Hotels & Resorts and Six

already seeing bookings from World of Hyatt

when your board would rather you not fritter cash

Senses Hotels Resorts Spas.”

members.

up the wall.

The end of last year saw Mr & Mrs Smith raise

In the same earnings report, Hyatt said that

So why not do one of these loyalty partnerships?

close to GBP4m in crowdfunding as it looked

World of Hyatt members accounted for about

Lots of fun, new hotels, places for loyalty guests to

to pursue further global expansion. According

75% of Hyatt’s website bookings and a third of

stay and even adding the gloss of luxury for potential

to the company’s pitch document, the group

overall bookings.

conversions. But once the hotels have come under the

had 1.5 million members, had completed over

Mark Hoplamazian, the company’s president

auspices of the IHG - you can book direct through

GBP60m in bookings in the last year and grown

and CEO, told analysts: “Elite customer scores

IHG channels - then one has to ask what the point of

booked commission revenues by 35% year-on-

are up significantly, and our global room night

the global branded groups are any more. Curators?

year, generating total revenues of over GBP13m

penetration has increased approximately 460

and Ebitda of GBP1.37m, with 98% of members

basis points to over 41% during the first half of

stating that they would book again.

2019 compared to the same period in 2018. We

IHG has been bolstering its luxury offering

believe engagement of World of Hyatt members

in recent years, most recently paying Pegasus

fuelled our transient demand and contributed

145

Best Western adds extended stay

currently 17,000 branded hotels, and another

and internationally in dense urban markets,

12,000 unbranded, in the economy and midscale

emerging neighbourhoods and high foot

Best Western Hotels & Resorts has launched

segments. The white label approach allows Best

traffic areas,” added Jim Chu, global head of

its first extended-stay brand, SureStay Studio,

Western to tap into this tremendous potential

development for Hyatt. “We believe the brand

aimed at the upper end of the segment, targeting

without compromising its brand image.

is primed for strong growth as it can flex and

both conversions and new builds. Best Western’s

“Currently, many of these hotels have little

adapt to suit the needs of different locations

launch came alongside a new brand from Hyatt,

to no consumer relevance. Their brands have

and markets and can offer a more sustainable

looking at the select-service customer.

very little potential to drive superior revenue,

approach to design and operations.”

Best Western’s president and CEO, David

and the owners are incurring high franchise fees

Kong, said: “SureStay Studio solidifies

from brands that don’t provide the necessary

HA PERSPECTIVE

BWHR as a global leader in the economy and

support, service or value.”

By Katherine Doggrell: The economy extended stay

premium-economy segments. In a short span

In addition achieving and maintaining a

segment IS hot right now, that nice Mr LeBlanc is

of time, SureStay Hotel Group has experienced

TripAdvisor score of 3.5 or higher, SureStay

right. And you know what else is hot? Spaces which

tremendous growth around the world, and we

hotels also need to adhere to the SureStay

are “intended for them”, them being, well, people

are confident that SureStay Studio will further

Service Promise, which will include factors

who want a drink, such as journalists trying to keep

bolster this already successful portfolio of

such as speed of Wi-Fi connection and standard

up with new brand launches.

hotels.”

of breakfast, as well as agreement to surprise

Because what all hotel groups are realising is

“SureStay Hotel Group is the perfect home for

inspections. Unlike the Best Western estate,

that, thanks in large part to Airbnb, hotel guests are

a premium-economy extended stay brand, and

there is no requirement to renovate a property

thoroughly over the cookie-cutter brands and are

the launch of SureStay Studio comes at a critical

to fit with design or standard requirements, as

looking for something which suits their needs, be

time,” added Brad LeBlanc, SVP and CDO,

long as the TripAdvisor score and Promise are

they requiring a space they can actually live in, or a

BWHR. “The economy extended stay segment

met.

bar they want to invite their friends into.

is hot right now! As one of the most profitable

The company said that the brand had garnered

And hotels, as Accor has stated with its own local

segments in the industry, we’re seeing growing

“significant interest among developers in

strategy, need to see the area around their hotels

demand from both developers and travellers.

the premium-economy market because of its

less as a source of potential employees and irritated

SureStay Studio is a value-engineered prototype

competitive fee structure and access to BWHR’s

neighbours and more as a source of revenue, which

offering developers strong ROI.”

powerhouse brand”.

means that they need to create spaces people want

Best Western launched three brands under

At Hyatt Hotels Corporation, the group

its new SureStay flag in 2016, using a white

launched Caption by Hyatt, a new lifestyle

label franchise model. The brand, which does

brand within the select service category that

not feature the Best Western name, was seen

the company said: “will bring people closer

as a reaction to the launch of the low-cost

together, allowing them to work, eat or socialise

OYO raises USD1.5bn

Magnuson Hotels, which offered a fee-based

in comfortable, flexible, communal spaces

OYO Hotels & Homes is to raise USD1.5bn in

alternative to franchises.

that encourage meaningful conversations and

its latest funding round, using the money to

connections”.

expand its position in the US and in the holiday

The company said at the time that SureStay

somewhere more interesting.

opened up a “migration path” for Best Western

“At Hyatt, we believe in the power of personal

hotels which do not wish to pursue its design

connection,” said Heather Geisler, VP global

News of the round came as Selina was

programme.

brands, Hyatt. “By listening to our guests, we

rumoured to be looking at raising further

rental market in Europe.

The SureStay umbrella includes: SureStay

know that whether they are traveling alone or

funding, after a USD100m earlier this year. At

Hotel (premium economy), SureStay Plus

with a friend, they are looking to connect with

OYO, RA Hospitality Holdings’ will be putting

Hotel (lower midscale) and SureStay Signature

others in an environment that is authentic and

USD700m in as primary capital, with the balance

Collection (midscale soft brand). Best Western

approachable. The Caption by Hyatt brand will

USD800m coming from other existing investors.

said that it aimed to provide options in

invite guests and locals alike to hang out, enjoy

Earlier this year, RA Hospitality Holding’s

the marketplace “for franchisees who are

a cocktail and catch up with a friend, new or old,

received approval from the Competition

disillusioned by one-sided contracts that do

in a space that is intended for them.”

Commission of India to invest USD2bn in

not deliver”.

Kong said: “In North America, there are

146

to come to, rather than walk through to get to

“We intend for the Caption by Hyatt brand

OYO. In order to facilitate this transaction,

to be a global growth driver domestically

Lightspeed Venture Partners and Sequoia were

BUSINESS CENTRE

HA PERSPECTIVE

selling part of their shareholding. Prior to this,

Maninder Gulati, OYO chief strategy officer,

OYO had raised over USD1bn in its last financing

said: “With Europe spearheading the vacation

By Katherine Doggrell: OYO is the only game in

round, announced in September 2018, led by

and urban home rental trend globally, @Leisure

town in its domestic market. There had been some

SoftBank through SoftBank Vision Fund, with

Group is uniquely positioned to capitalise on its

rumours earlier this year linking Accor to a bid on

participation from existing investors Lightspeed

experience and insights aided with OYO’s full-

rival Treebo, but this hack understands that deal is

Venture Partners, Sequoia and Greenoaks

stack approach towards building the world’s

no longer on the cards, despite Accor’s deal-per-

Capital and supported by new strategic partners

largest global vacation rentals business. If one

week average sliding at the moment.

including Airbnb.

were to look at Europe alone, there is an ever-

Such dominance is bound to make local hotels

increasing demand for vacation homes with an

peeved and we await developments in India with

increasing trend of booking an entire home.”

interest. Now we watch to see whether the group

This year, the company has reported a 3.8 times year-on-year growth in revenue in August 2019, with 1.2 million rooms under management across hotels and homes.

Ritesh Agarwal, founder and CEO, OYO Hotels & Homes, said: “The continued support

The funding came as hoteliers in India alleged

can repeat its success in more developed areas.

that OYO was unfairly raising commission fees.

Indian Americans make up a significant number

Additional charges could take deductions to

of hotel owners in the US, which may give the

more than half of revenues, reported Reuters.

company something of an advantage in a country

of our investors like Softbank Vision Fund,

Last month, hotel operators in Bengaluru

Lightspeed, Sequoia Capital is a testament to

called for a criminal probe into the company.

the love, trust and relentless support of our

Two hoteliers in Karnataka filed separate

In Europe, the group has its eye on holiday rentals,

asset owners and customers, hard work of all

police complaints accusing OYO of deceitfully

which offer a certain amount of low-hanging

OYOpreneurs, and our commitment to making

increasing commissions, and accused Agarwal

fruit in a territory where companies such as the

#LivingTheGoodLife a reality for over 3.2 billion

of fraud. OYO, which charges a base franchise fee

aforementioned Accor are big players in the budget

middle-income people around the world. With

of around 20%, insisted it has been transparent

and economy sectors. The recent issues around

the CCI approval now in place, the company will

with its charging structure.

WeWork mean that Softbank, which invests in both

that is already au fait with advantageously-priced franchises.

get a capital infusion of approximately USD1.5bn

At Selina, local press suggested that the

companies, is likely to be pressing for someone to

to support this mission, supported by me and

company could be on the verge of raising

make a profit sooner rather than later. Better keep

other shareholders.

additional money after the funding round

that pipeline rolling.

“Not only are we operating profitably at the

earlier this year, bringing the company’s total

building level but at the same time our Ebitda

funding to USD225m to date. The company has

has also improved by 50% (on a year-on-year

46 locations in 13 countries, with over 22,000

Third parties give comfort

basis). The losses as a percentage of NRV have

beds open or under conversion, combining

Third-party management companies were

also been on a steady and significant declining

private and shared accommodation with co-

providing a source of comfort for investors to

curve. The growth across verticals in India and

working facilities.

rival the brands, delegates at this year’s Annual

globally has been phenomenal and we truly

Selina co-founder & CEO, Rafael Museri, said:

believe that we will be able to build a truly global

“We’ll continue to invest in our technology

As the sector moved away from the periphery

brand out of India, while ensuring that the

innovation team in Tel Aviv as we explore

of real estate investments and towards the core,

business is run efficiently and with a clear path

digitally-driven ways to disrupt the hospitality

there were increasing demands placed on the

to profitability. Our immediate goal however

industry, enhance the complete booking and

brands to justify their roles.

is to make forward looking investments so we

user experience for travellers, and continue

Jens Blomdahl, KSL Capital Partners,

can achieve our mission, while delivering on

rapid expansion into new markets across the

said: “The brand pendulum swings back and

our fiduciary responsibility to our investors by

globe.

forth. With the movement of the third-party

Hotel Conference in Manchester heard.

“As we’ve seen across a number of industries

managers coming into Europe there is some

The company has been strengthening

from co-working to ridesharing, millennials

comfort to be had from them, they create

its position in holiday rentals in Europe,

and Gen Z are redefining how they want to live,

operational efficiency. When you’re on a seven-

announcing in August that it was to invest

work and explore the world. The ambitious and

year cycle of ownership and you have a 25-year

EUR300m growing its European vacation rental

adventurous nature of these generations prove

agreement wth a brand, it’s better to have a

business. The group bought Dutch holiday

that there is a demand for our experiential

third-party operator instead, because you can

rental company @Leisure in May, renaming it

hospitality model today and for years to come.”

sell unencumbered.”

building a sustainable business.”

it Oyo Vacation Homes.

Speaking for the lenders, Emma Young, Allied

147

BUSINESS CENTRE

Irish Bank, added: “The value of the brand

institutions. Young said: “You can almost talk

depends on location and management. They

yourself into ground rents, but it is a senior

don’t work on every hotel, it’s on a case-by-

deal. We see a lot of people asking for it, I can

case basis. We take comfort not just from the

see the attraction from an investor’s point of

global distribution, there are brand standards

view. When it comes to development finance

which have to be maintained, so you know there

they are a ‘no’.”

will be capex spent to maintain the property.

Williams added: “As a bank we don’t like

If a hotel hasn’t been established yet, they can

a super-senior position, they’re untried,”

also add to a property. We lend to branded

while Lissa Engle, Berkeley Capital Group,

and unbranded, depending on the site. The

said: “Lenders all value the ground rent aspect

availability of finance coming into the sector

differently. We need to see it tried and tested.”

has increased over the last six years, but we still

Despite a drop in UK hotel transactions in the

focus on the fundamentals, on location and on

first half of 34%, as reported by PwC, there was

management.”

confidence about the deals market, with CBRE

Earlier in the conference, a group of

Hotels’ Joe Stather telling the event: “European

independent hoteliers told attendees that the

and domestic institutional investors are leading

brands were not required to have successful

the charge when it comes to UK hotel portfolio

distribution, with Nick Davies, The Cottage in

acquisitions and the 2019 UK hotel investment

the Wood Hotel commenting that “The OTAs

volume is on track to reach GBP5.3bn”.

have played a part in levelling the playing field

The Marathon deal remained to be done in

with the big players”, while in contrast, Ben

the UK, while during the AHC Talash Hotels

Harper, Watergate Bay, responded: “We don’t

announced that it was being marketed,

use the OTAs - once you turn them on it’s hard

illustrating ongoing appetite for hotels.

to turn them off again.” An option for iconic hotels.

By Katherine Doggrell: As we heard at the

were “more opportunities to forming bilateral

recent Hotel Distribution Event, the increasingly

bonds with customers, but there are threats to

professional ownership community has been looking

that”, one example of which was the OTAs and

at the brands and wondering why they get so much

their eagerness to own the customer.

of their money. Change is already being forced and

While the brands continued to proliferate,

greater participation is being seen from flags who

Karan Kanna, IHG, said: “We have to be careful

are motivated by a need to maintain their pipelines.

not to create a sticker brand - brands that are

But the grumbles are not over. Elias Hayek or Squire

out there just to take on supply-side situations.

Patton Boggs was cautious about the round of

It has to stand for something.”

consolidation in the sector, which meant that owners

The brands hold looked to be wavering,

were seeing themselves become smaller players in a

with STR’s Thomas Emanuel telling delegates

big pond and worrying about their share of the pie

that “more of the hotel pipeline in the UK is

as a consequence.

independent, rather than branded rooms”.

Happily, a solution to all this was available, with

Funding that pipeline, Dan Williams, Clydesdale

the expansion of the third-party operators into

Bank, said that “banks want duration and

Europe, keeping the brands in check or, in some

they want to continue to lend, so there is still

cases, not branding at all. With the likes of OYO

appetite in the marketplace. For us, location is

offering a new route to market, the established flags

key and borrower profile is key”.

are facing some readjustment.

Causing some concern to the lenders was the rise in ground rent deals, driven in part by growth in participation in the sector by the

148

HA PERSPECTIVE

David Orr, CEO, Nadler Hotels, said that there

Hotel Analyst is the news analysis service for those involved with financing hotel property or hotel operating companies.

For more information and to subscribe visit: www.hotelanalyst.co.uk

WE CELEBRATE TWENTY YEARS OF SUCCESSFULL HOTEL DEVELOPMENT. FEURING Hotel Development Europa GmbH is a Project Management and Development Company based in Germany and specialised in 4 and 5 star projects for the Hospitality Industry throughout Europe.

Our mission is to ensure the completion of the highest standard on time and within the budget.

FEURING Hotel Development Europa GmbH / Heinkelstr. 19-21 / DE-73230 Kirchheim u. Teck / +49 (0) 7021 73 60-0 / www.feuring.info Ameron Hotel, Davos, Switzerland / Andaz Hotel, Amsterdam, Netherlands / Munich, Germany / Concorde La Fayette, Paris, France / Concorde St. Lazare, Paris, France / Dolce Hotel, Munich, Germany / Dolce La Hulpe, Brussels, Belgium / Doubletree by Hilton, Košice, Slovakia / Grand Hotel Kempinski, High Tatras, Slovakia / Hilton Garden Inn, Davos, Switzerland / Hyatt Place, Frankfurt, Germany / Zurich Airport, Switzerland / Hyatt Regency, Düsseldorf, Germany / Mainz, Germany / Zurich Airport, Switzerland / InterContinental, Davos, Switzerland / Geneva, Switzerland / Jaz, Stuttgart, Germany / Jumeirah Hotel, Frankfurt, Germany / Mallorca, Spain / Kameha Hotel, Zurich, Switzerland / Kempinski Hotel River Park, Bratislava, Slovakia / Le Méridien, Barcelona, Spain / Munich, Germany / Split, Croatia / Stuttgart, Germany / Vienna, Austria / Le Méridien Domhotel, Cologne, Germany / Le Méridien Etoile, Paris, France / Le Royal Méridien, Hamburg, Germany / Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona, Spain / Bodrum, Turkey / Geneva, Switzerland / Munich, Germany / Paris, France / Prague, Czech Republic / Mövenpick Hotel & Casino, Geneva, Switzerland / Mövenpick Hotel, Basel, Switzerland / Stuttgart Airport, Germany / Zurich Airport, Switzerland / Radisson SAS, Rostock, Germany / Rosewood Hotel, Amsterdam, Netherlands / SOHO, Amsterdam, Netherlands / Swissôtel Bremen, Germany / Dresden, Germany / Geneva, Switzerland / Sochi, Russia / The Ritz Carlton, Berlin, Germany / Budapest, Hungary ...

The Ritz Carlton Berlin / Photograph: Cape Pembroke Ltd. / www.matthewshaw.co.uk

RIO DE JANEIRO STR’s August hotel performance data showed Rio de Janeiro’s first month of supply growth in 2019 (+0.8%). A 4.7% jump in demand, driven by a packed events calendar, helped produce growth across the three key performance metrics: occupancy (+3.9%), ADR (+6.1%) and RevPAR (+10.2%).

Playing host to the 2016 Summer Olympics provided a short-term boost, with the city’s hotels reporting year-over-year RevPAR growth (+388.1%) during the event period. However, the rapid supply expansion caused problems over the following years. Between 2014 and 2016, an additional 9,288 rooms entered the market, representing a 45.0% increase from 2013 levels. Unlike other host markets such as Beijing and London, Rio’s growth ended abruptly following the 2016 Olympic year.

This issue was exacerbated by the country’s economic crisis, subsequent bankruptcy and Rio’s issues with police presence in the favelas affecting tourism.

This translated to a 4.2% decrease in hotel supply in 2018. When looking at the same year, demand resilience (+5.2%) enabled a 9.9% rise in occupancy, which drove a double-digit jump in RevPAR (+10.4%). ADR, however, fell slightly (-0.4%).

The upward performance trajectory has continued into 2019 – when looking at the first eight months of the year, occupancy and RevPAR saw double-digit increases, while ADR grew 7.2%.

Performance

August 2019 year-to-date

Occupancy 57.8% 18%

RevPAR* BRL 381.57 7.2%

ADR* BRL 220.56 26.5%

*local currency

Rio de Janeiro’s under contract pipeline total reflects the market’s supply concerns, comprising just three hotels and 362 rooms. Only two are projected to open by 2022 and three projects have moved to a deferred status in 2019.

STR is the source for premium global data benchmarking, analytics and marketplace insights, tracking 8 million rooms worldwide. www.str.com

150

BUSINESS CENTRE

Rooms +1.2% Existing Supply 29,756 Pipeline 362

151

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M

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CM

MY

CY

MY

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OFFICES: OFFICES: GERMANY GERMANY SPAIN SPAIN UNITED KINGDOM UNITED KINGDOM UNITED STATES UNITED STATES MEXICO MEXICO

TM TM MAGLIA MAGLIA

AA NEW ERA IN INTEXTILE TEXTILELOOKING LOOKING COATED FABRICS NEW ERA COATED FABRICS WWW.SPRADLING.EU WWW.SPRADLING.EU

EVENTS DIARY

5-6 NOV

10-11 NOV

11-14 NOV

12

NOV

Deloitte EHIC London www.deloitte.co.uk

BDNY New York www.bdny.com

Further East Bali www.furthereast.co

Top Hotel World Tour New York www.thpworldtour.com

12-15 NOV

13

NOV

18

NOV

19-20 NOV

Downtown Design Dubai www.downtowndesign.com

AHEAD MEA Dubai www.aheadawards.com

AHEAD Europe London www.aheadawards.com

Sleep & Eat London www.sleepandeatevent.com

20-22 NOV

4-6 DEC

5

DEC

9-11 DEC

InteriHotel Barcelona www.interihotel.com

WAF / Inside Amsterdam www.worldarchitecturefestival.com

Top Hotel World Tour Shanghai www.thpworldtour.com

HI Design Americas Florida www.hidesign-americas.com

155

Radical Innovation Award 16 October 2019 NEW YORK CITY

The Radical Innovation Award – an annual

State University of Architecture & Engineering

competition seeking out the latest hospitality

were awarded US$1,500 for their concept, and

concepts with the power to change the hotel

both students will also have the opportunity

landscape – has announced its winners for

to pursue an assistantship for a Master’s of

2019 following a ceremony at New York City’s

Architecture Degree in Hospitality Design at the

New Museum, which welcomed over 200 guests

University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

including hotel designers, developers, investors and architects.

Winners of the 13th annual Radical Innovation award have been announced, recognising hospitality concepts with the potential to change the industry.

156

The winning Connectic concept by Cooper Carry Architects employs modular construction

Over 50 international entries were submitted

techniques to fill underutilised spaces by way

to this year’s competition, from which three

of collapsible, modular units that are flexible

professional finalists and one student winner

and adaptable to a variety of environments. The

were determined based on their achievements

concept could be used to build pop-up hotels

in design, creativity, feasibility and potential

in remote areas, or to help solve problems of

impact on the industry.

density in over-saturated urban cores.

The three professional finalists – Infinite

Interstitial spaces between buildings, parking

Explorer by SB Architects, Connectic by Cooper

lots, forgotten pocket parks and above buildings

Carry Architects and Volumetric High-Rise

offer an opportunity for hotels of the future to

Modular Hotel by Danny Forster & Architects –

use Connectic’s model to increase volume of

were presented in front of a live audience, along

available keys and amenities, whilst connecting

with this year’s already announced student

neglected spaces to existing properties. This

winner, Rooftop Hotel Gardens – a proposed

would become an aggregation that can swell

series of modular, dynamic and interchangeable

and shrink as needed, and generate profit while

rooftop guestrooms.

providing guests with a unique experience.

Following an audience vote, Connectic

A collective of modules that are at once

was revealed as the recipient of this year’s

collapsible and reusable, the system can be

US$10,000 grand prize, whilst Volumetric

disassembled and stored conveniently until the

High-Rise Modular Hotel received a US$5,000

need for additional accommodation, conflating

runner-up prize. Student winners Ruslan

multiple revenue streams into a single solution

Mannapov and Airat Zaidullin of Russia’s Kazan

and a kinematic proposal to temporary events.

EVENTS

The winning Connectic concept by Cooper Carry Architects employs modular construction techniques to fill underutilised spaces by way of collapsible, modular units that are flexible and adaptable to a variety of environments

Radical Innovation Award was coproduced by The Hardy Group with support from founding sponsor Global Allies, and official media partners Sleeper and Dezeen. www.radicalinnovationaward.com

157

England Hospitality unfolds in space. Limitless opportunities open up. HoReCa at the world’s most important consumer goods trade fair is expanding. What’s more, from 2020 Hall 6.0 will offer a showcase for international innovations, a venue for a discourse of inventive gastronomy concepts and an exchange of trends.

Information and tickets: ambiente.messefrankfurt.com/horeca Tel. +44 (0) 14 83 48 39 83 info@uk.messefrankfurt.com

DU: 10.10.2019

2. .

1 1 — O 7. — 2O2S K O LO OD GO

70146-003_AM_HoReCa_Sleeper_242x284 • FOGRA 39 • CMYK • js: 20.082019

the show

EVENTS

Sleep & Eat 19-20 November 2019 LONDON

With a focus on the potential of hospitality to pioneer environments for human interaction, the Sleep & Eat conference will examine connection in the digital age.

E

urope’s leading hospitality design and

running the group as a platform for creativity. If

innovation event, Sleep & Eat, has

the strength of the brand is currently a clientele

announced its free-to-attend conference

that sees value in a specific lifestyle, will that be

programme for 2019. Featuring keynotes from

enough to fuel ambitious growth?

celebrated game-changers, panel discussions

Also from the States, Josh Wyatt, the driving-

between operators, owners and designers,

force behind NeueHouse, the US-based provider

a series of Development Roundtables giving

of collaborative workspace, will share his

delegates the opportunity to meet industry

opinions with Conference Curator Heleri Rande.

leaders, and presentations from the Sleep & Eat

Together they will consider how creativity and

Set designers, the programme will examine the

design can act as financial drivers for investors

concept of Social FlexAbility – the overarching

and take a look at how NeueHouse is using these

theme for this year’s show.

elements to create a unique and non-replicable

Amar Lalvani, who as CEO of Standard

company in a competitive landscape.

International has built the company into one

Elsewhere, the trend for hybrid spaces where

of the world’s most innovative hospitality

guests socialise and work will be under the

enterprises, will be flying in from New York

spotlight when a panel of operators gathers to

to deliver the opening session in conversation

discuss the show’s theme. Today, it’s a given

with Sleeper’s Managing Editor, Catherine

for most hotels that public areas need to be

Martin. With The Standard, London now open

engaging whilst also offering strong food and

– the brand’s first outside North America –

drink concepts. However, what does that mean

and plans afoot to quadruple the company’s

operationally, and how must brands adapt to

footprint in coming years, Lalvani will tackle

manage this efficiently?

the challenging issue of how best to continue

Dale MacPhee – General Manager of the

159

EVENTS

Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh and Business Women

Dilley, Director, Jestico + Whiles and Sigurdur

Scotland’s Hotelier of the Year 2017 – along with

Thorsteinsson, Partner, Design Group Italia,

Eylem Ozgun, CitizenM’s London Area Manager,

will be asked to suggest what defines a true

and Grant Powell, CEO of Central Working, will

eco-hotel and whether luxury hospitality with

seek to answer these questions in discussion

its associated price tag can ever truly be a guilt-

with veteran hotelier and Chairman of Bespoke

free experience.

Hotels, Robin Sheppard.

end, delegates will be invited to consider a new

of SUSD – the developer behind The Curtain

frontier of the hospitality development in the

Hotel & Members Club, will chair a conversation

form of underwater hotels, restaurants and

on the design of co-experience between

bars. Richard Coutts, Director of Baca Architects

leading international designers including

– a specialist in designing on, near or under

Alex Michaelis, founder of Michaelis Boyd;

water – and Ben Fitzgerald, Operations Director

Kayla Pongrac, Senior Designer, The Design

of Core Marine, the engineers behind Under

Agency; Matthew Grzywinski, co-founder of

restaurant off the Norwegian coast, will discuss

Grzywinski + Pons; and Yuna Megre, founder

what is involved in creating extraordinary guest

of Megre Interiors. The panel will consider how

experiences beneath the waves.

hospitality design can combat modern urban

Last but not least, this year’s Development

isolation by offering the experience of wellbeing

Roundtables will offer attendees the opportunity

from physical, sociological and psychological

to talk directly with leading figures and

health perspectives.

decision makers at the forefront of the evolving hospitality industry.

to bring together some of the most respected

Table hosts, including Irene Hoek, Vice

names in F&B leadership such as Karian Elias

President Global Residential Development at

of The Langham, Lydia Forte of Rocco Forte

Rosewood Hotel Group; Laura Brinkman, Vice

Hotels, Gustaf Pilebjer of Marriott, and Anurag

President, Brookfield; Maria Adamo, Global

Bali of Shangri-La International. Topics up

Development Manager, Mandarin Oriental

for debate range from hot new concepts to the

Hotel Group; and Philip Camble, Director of

thorny question of whether hotels have finally

Whitebridge Hospitality will tour the tables to

caught up with independent restaurants and

offer insightful views on emerging trends, the

bars in offering social excitement and social

latest development hotspots, and the challenges

media-worthy content.

and opportunities awaiting guests and brands

The conference will close with Guilt Free Experiences, a debate for a time when it is hard to find a hotel brand without sustainability among its values. The speakers – Callie Tedder-Hares, founder of Volume, James

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However, before proceedings draw to an

Meanwhile, Harry Harris, Managing Director

A session entitled Bedrooms are Boring is set

Left to right: Amar Lalvani, CEO, Standard International; Josh Wyatt, CEO Neuehouse; Kayla Pongrac, Senior Designer, The DesignAgency; Richard Coutts, co-founder and Director, Baca Architects; Lydia Forte, Group Director of F&B, Rocco Forte Hotels

alike in today’s hotel marketplace.

Sleep & Eat will be open from 10.0020.30 on 19 November (late evening networking from 18.00) and 10.00-18.00 on 20 November at London Olympia. For more information and to register for a complimentary pass visit: www.sleepandeatevent.com

EVENTS

The Sleeper Bar Sleep & Eat LONDON

Michaelis Boyd explore sustainability and social interaction in the digital age to create this year’s Sleeper Bar.

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Multidisciplinary design studio Michaelis Boyd

the first half of the 20th century,” explain Tim

has revealed the inspiration behind this year’s

Boyd and Alex Michaelis. “Working primarily

Sleeper Bar – the annual pop-up concept serving

in timber, our bar is a study in sustainability;

as networking hub for Sleep & Eat.

investigating the afterlife of the materials

Working to the event’s guiding principle of

through scale, layering, adaptability and

Social FlexAbility – encompassing topics from

recycling. This has led us to create a space that

social interaction in the digital age to ideals

will cater to all walks of life, adjusting to the

of connection within the hospitality industry

needs of each individual, and making the bar a

– Michaelis Boyd has looked to French author

rich experience for each visitor.”

Jean Giono’s celebrated short story ‘The Man

Located on the exhibition floor, the bar will

Who Planted Trees’ for inspiration, interpreting

be open throughout the duration of Sleep & Eat,

the allegorical tale as an environmentally-

providing a place to network, take a break or

conscious mix of elegant design and a palette

catch up on the latest issue of Sleeper, available

of sustainable materials.

complimentary to all visitors. On Tuesday 19

“The tale describes a shepherd’s long and

November, the show will remain open until

successful effort to single-handedly reforest a

20:30, with the late-night networking event

desolate valley in the foothills of the Alps in

commencing from 18:00.

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EVENTS

Downtown Design 12-15 November 2019

Top Drawer 12-14 January 2020

DUBAI

LONDON

Returning for its seventh edition during Dubai Design Week, the UAE’s

Taking place at Olympia London in January, Top Drawer is set to

largest creative festival, Downtown Design will feature a remastered

welcome a variety of buyers, designers and specialist manufacturers

layout by regional firms Wilson Associates, Swiss Bureau and XBD

from more than 100 countries. Spread across ten sectors, the three-day

Collective, each of which has been tasked with bringing creative

event will present the latest ranges from over 1,500 brands, as well as

elements to the fair’s public areas, such as the bar and the café.

providing insight into the latest industry trends.

Housed within a bespoke structure overlooking the d3 Waterfront

Kicking off next year’s exhibition calendar, the show will be centred

as part of a partnership with Dubai Design District (d3), the four-

around a ‘Live Design’ campaign, which aims to illustrate the elements

day event will also feature installations from global architecture

that make the show about much more than just buying and selling,

practice LWK+ Partners and Czech lighting brand Preciosa – the latter

rather a place that stimulates the sharing of ideas and experiences.

presenting its large-scale interactive installation, Carousel of Light.

by everyone who is a part of Top Drawer,” explains Show Director,

will return alongside new brands like Pedrali, who will showcase its

Alejandra Campos. “The 2020 ‘Live Design’ campaign captures both

furniture in the Middle East for the first time.

the individuality and togetherness of this design community.”

Meanwhile, The Forum will offer creative, commercial and strategic

Elsewhere, the Design Talk seminar programme will feature trend

industry insight, with highlights of the programme including a

analysis and informed presentations from hospitality specialists such

presentation by Allesandro Minotti of Italian furniture makers Minotti

as Michelle Hughes, Managing Director of Tara Bernerd & Partners;

and Dara Huang, founder of multidisciplinary studio Design Haus

Melita Skamnaki, Director at Double Decker; and Staffan and Monique

Liberty, who will speak on building design brands with staying power.

Tollgård, co-founders of Tollgård Design Group.

www.downtowndesign.com

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“Passion for design is at the very heart of our DNA and shared

On the exhibition floor, names such as Arper and Atelier Swarovski

www.topdrawer.co.uk

Links to make design ideas come true Kriskadecor develops highly customized projects made with anodized aluminium links, offering architects and interior designers a wide range of solutions for the hospitality sector: space dividers, wall coverings, ceilings, lighting elements or any other structure you can think of. Dare to test us!

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On Hotels & Health

Sleeper and The Manser Practice welcome a group of healthcare and hotel professionals to a roundtable discussion exploring the concept of patient hotels.

Words: Kristofer Thomas • Photography: © Fran Hales

I

n 2013, health executive Nick Seddon – then Special Advisor

However, nearly seven years later, the concept of patient

to UK Prime Minister David Cameron – wrote in an article

hotels has yet to find a foothold beyond Scandinavia – so

for The Guardian “not only have I seen the future; I have

what happened? On 16 October, London-based architecture

spent a few nights in it”.

and design studio The Manser Practice, in collaboration

The future in question was the Norlandia Tampere Hotel, a

with Sleeper, welcomed a group of healthcare and hotel

so-called patient hotel on the grounds of Finland’s Tampere

professionals to Marylebone’s Home House to discuss this

University Hospital that provides accommodation to those

question, as well as the ways in which the concept could

who do not require urgent or intensive levels of care, but

be unlocked for the UK market; the cultural and economic

must nonetheless stay in close proximity to attend tests, or

obstacles it would face; and the challenges and opportunities

to simply comfort a loved one in their time of need.

that await patient, hotelier and architect alike.

Popular across Scandinavia, with the hotel’s operator

Special guest speaker Nathalie Boulas Nilsson, CEO of

Norlandia Care running three additional facilities of this

Norlandia Care, flew in from Sweden to join the discussion

type – two in its native Sweden and another in Norway –

and highlight the benefits the model has provided to

the model has been said to have the potential to improve

the Scandinavian market, whilst representatives from

issues of efficiency, patient satisfaction and cost. “As well

preventative care hospitality group Lanserhof, the National

as offering a better experience for patients, these buildings

Health Service’s property services arm and healthcare

represent value for money, since the hotel room is a third of

infrastructure specialists Archus provided insight as to how

the price of a hospital bed each night,” Seddon noted.

and why the concept could be applied elsewhere.

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168

HOST Jonathan Manser (JM) CEO The Manser Practice

SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER Nathalie Boulas Nilsson (NBN) CEO Norlandia Care

SPEAKER Guy Barlow (GB) Joint Managing Director The Manser Practice

SPEAKER Richard Darch (RD) CEO Archus

Jonathan Manser is CEO of The Manser Practice, a London studio with experience in both healthcare and hotel sectors.

Nathalie Boulas Nilsson is CEO of Norlandia Care, a Swedish company with four existing patient hotels in operation.

Guy Barlow leads The Manser Pracitce’s northern office and has delivered masterplans for hotels, hospitals and housing.

Archus is an advisory, investment and development partner with a focus on health and social care infrastructure.

SPEAKER Guy Dittrich (GD) Editor-at-Large Sleeper

SPEAKER Eva-Maria Hasenauer (EMH) COO Lanserhof

SPEAKER Tim Meggit (TM) Director of Transaction Affordable Housing & Healthcare

SPEAKER Victoria Shaw (VS) Senior Property Development Manager, NHSPS

Guy Dittrich, Sleeper’s Editorat-Large is a commentator and writer covering hotels and hospitality design.

Lanserhof is a leader in the field of combined preventative wellness care and hospitality, operating five hotels worldwide.

AHH works to create housing and healthcare infrastructure that delivers sustainable and responsible returns.

NHSPS oversees the NHS’ property portfolio, shaping the system’s estate and exploring new models of care.

The roundtable discussion began with an introduction to existing patient hotels by Boulas Nilsson, outlining the function and form of the concept whilst touching on the systemic and cultural catalysts that have seen their popularity grow. Norlandia Care operates its own property development company and is a leader in the combined property and care development services. Jonathan Manser, CEO, The Manser Practice, then began the discussion with a question regarding what was stopping the UK adopting this model. The London-based studio has worked in both the hotel and healthcare sectors, with projects in the latter field including the NGS Macmillan Unit in Chesterfield and a 25-year phased masterplan for the redevelopment of Barnsley hospital.

JM: The lines between the two sectors are becoming less clear, and it seems like there is a place for the reorganisation of some hospitals in the UK – I think they should be able to combine their efforts and look after each other. The more we thought about the relationship between the two the more this made sense, so what’s stopping it happening here? How do we unlock

“The lines between the two sectors are becoming less clear, and it seems like there is a place for the reorganisation of some hospitals in the UK. They should be able to combine their efforts and look after each other. The more we thought about the relationship between the two, the more it made sense.”

TM: There are 200 acute trusts in the country, and 200 individual boards making their own decisions with no real central organisation trying to introduce any property strategy. Each is trying to do what they think best for their locality, but each is fundamentally different.

GD: I look at the hotel industry as a heavy ship that takes forever moving an inch, and where patient hotels have a 10-year profile these groups can have 100 years behind them, and can be terrified of making any changes. But of those 200 trusts, would there not be 5% willing to try?

The conversation then shifted to the topic of operational models, and how creating a patient hotel in tandem with fostering connections with healthcare institutions could be achieved. Whilst it is possible for developers to approach the concept as an extension of an existing hospital, it was stressed that the parties involved must collaborate from an early stage, and that those who will be staffing both properties must be on board too if the combined project is to work as efficiently as claimed. So, what model would work best?

patient hotels for this country?

RD: A land sale, and then making it part of RD: I think these concepts run into trouble

the care continuum. Hospitals need to realise

in terms of language and labels. There could

the fact that someone is going to take the

be some confusion as to whether it’s a step-

land to build and operate the facility, and that

down in care or a step-up. The other issue is

competitive. This is something that will only

patients will take advantage of it. There is an

the maths; it’s often quoted as a third of the

increase with private backers coming in.

opportunity now, following the announcement

cost of acute beds, and that’s true if you use

of the hospital investment programme. I’ve

average cost, but a hospital receives its income

VS: There is synergy between the two health

seen proposals for two new projects with hotels

through a front-loaded tariff, and tries to make

services, but I think these kinds of developments

on site, so it is starting to get through to the

an investment stack up in terms of the building,

fall by the wayside because service providers are

public consciousness.

land and recoupment costs. It requires a bit of

focused on patient care, balancing books and

bravery and confidence, but it is possible to

making sure the roof isn’t leaking. They need

NBN: From a hotel management perspective

balance once you have the scheme built and

the capital to kick-start any development on

beds are the value from which you calculate

operational, at which point you can reduce beds

their estate, and it would be a huge business

staffing and costs. I think the trick is building

in the acute setting.

case to put together and understand what this

something new, so instead of 700 hospital beds

will release in terms of beds, or how it would

you can build 600 and designate 100 to the

affect the infection rate.

patient hotel. The total will be the same, but

NBN: From my experience it fails when hospital management are not involved from the very

you have a much cheaper, better and efficient

start. They need to feel that this is part of

NBN: Infection rate is one of the most widely

service. To existing hospitals with enough beds

their operations and content – as a point on

discussed issues – there’s a lot of illness you

already it’s going to be a hard sell, but if they

treatment chain. In Norway and Finland, the

can attract at hospitals, especially if there is an

are thinking about an expansion then it could

hospitals are fond of their patient hotels, and

immunosuppressed patient. You actually have

be as easy as saying we can reduce the costs by

the management even brag about how well

less infections in patient hotels, and customer

creating a patient hotel.

the patients respond, making them more

satisfaction is at around 95%.

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“For cancer patients these projects are invaluable: if they come in to stay a night before surgery and spend 3-5 days in the hospital after that, then being moved to the patient hotel actually becomes a milestone in their care – the worst is over.”

JM: If you look at it from a perspective of selling

of workers to buy into it – it’s a serious cultural

it off and doing something different with the

shift, but the right thing to do.

land then you’re sort of missing the point. If the patient hotel is operating properly then it

EMH: Why couldn’t you transform an existing

becomes a vital part of the hospital complex,

hotel into one of these properties rather than

and you end up with a sort of collegiate group

changing a hospital? Lanserhof is different in

of buildings, including that hotel which makes a

that we come from the private sector, and as

vital contribution to the whole hospital process.

opposed to people coming to us for acute care it is more preventative, however I think there

VS: Every trust is trying to work their estate

is huge potential in the UK for something like

harder and looking at commercial deals that

this, and room for both types of project – strong

can widen the capital or revenue streams,

preventative and acute care are complementary.

whilst also trying to understand how this works

RD: This kind of project does need a different

with the sense of ethos and community. We’ve

commercial model, one where you can say to

been looking at a number of projects identified

a hospital group that if we can we have access

for the inclusion of step-up, step-down or

to a piece of land then we will fund, build and

intermediate care, which is determined around

operate it. Then, over time, they can manage

people travelling great distances for treatment.

and reduce the costs. I think when hospitals are trying to do it all themselves it becomes very

GB: The GSI are trying to balance 35% back

hard to stack up.

of house with 65% public house in hospitals, seeking to be more efficient by rationalising

With the UK government having announced the

the estate. An expansion could be easier, but

largest new hospital building programme in a

for some of the UK hospitals there might be a

generation this September – which includes plans to

Victorian ward that needs to be shut down or

modernise the NHS estate alongside over 40 hospital

turned into a hotel, but that’s a fundamental

building projects – the £2.8 billion investment was

change to how the hospital operates. You have to

said to be the best chance for some time for patient

get both the management team and thousands

hotels to make their way across the North Sea. But whilst this is excellent news for developers and architects, what does it mean for patients?

NBN: Efficiency, for hospital and patient. One of our most used facilities are maternity wards.

As soon as the baby is born the patient is taken from the ward to the hotel, meaning the family can stay together, and the baby can have visitors in a comfortable environment, freeing up an acute bed in the process. For cancer patients these projects are invaluable: if they come in to stay a night before surgery, then spend 3-5 days in the hospital after that, then being moved to the patient hotel actually becomes a milestone in their care – when the worst is over.

RD: If you can actually improve the experience of simply waiting around, then the process is a positive one rather than a negative one.

NBN: There are lots of hospitals where doctors come for six-month training periods, so they make use of the hotel too. For this reason, we also include conference centres, where at the Tampere location the hospital management actually have their meetings. We also keep our facilities and restaurants open 24/7, so

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MEETING…

families or guests can eat when they want in a nice environment. We even see staff who are unhappy with the hospital food coming over to the hotel. There is also an integrated booking system, and very close cooperation with the hospital, so the ward are informed which patients will be coming next week so they can prepare. We even have special fridges for any medication that needs to be handled in-room.

They look exactly like nice hotel rooms, but they are tailored for patients, so there is efficiency, but also an elevated level of comfort.

GD: There is a real requirement for hospitality with purpose and this level of care. It isn’t chosen, it is needed. This should be what we look at in terms of net benefits. It seems clear that there’s a chance for the hospitality world to come on-board, because they don’t have the expertise of looking after people in this way.

You’re much more likely to recuperate mentally in a well-designed environment rather than one coated in disinfectant, so getting the maverick

“There is a real requirement for hospitality with purpose and this level of care. It isn’t chosen; it is needed.

This should be what we look at in terms of net benefits. It seems clear that there’s a chance for the hospitality world to come on-board, because they don’t have the expertise of looking after people in this way.”

Lanserhof Group tries to make it so people don’t have to go to hospital.

GD: Lanserhof is a guiding light in how things could be though. Yes, it’s privately funded and hugely expensive, but it is absolutely beautiful.

You decide yourself whether you want to go and find the cure, but when you’re there it feels like the right thing to do. I think Lanserhof is showing the way it could be done, so it is important that there are these facilities.

TM: There is a barrier between the public and private sectors, and certain parts of the public sector who absolutely believe it’s wrong to allow the private sector in. This is fundamentally flawed, but it’s gradually getting broken down.

VS: I see the absolute benefit, but we do have to be careful about the terminology, and also about anyone seeing this as a kind of privatisation of some aspects of the NHS, in terms of it being a separate provider on-board.

architect involved could see guests much happier in a beautiful space.

TM: The buzzword in the NHS at the moment is staffing issues, and the recruitment and

NBN: If you talk to healthcare management

retention of staff. One of the key things they’ve

it’s not a difficult decision. When real estate

talked to us about is key worker accommodation,

developers have an idea or plot, they usually

which desperately needs a fresh pair of eyes on

begin working and then bring in hospital

it to deliver a different product to what was

management later, by which time they are

approached and benefits clearly stated. With

thought ideal 20 or 30 years ago. What you

already far along. If you actually explain to the

Scandinavian patients and guests already seeing the

would need to get a patient hotel off the ground

hospitals these benefits in turnaround times,

positives of the hybrid model, could patient hotels

is an operator who wants to come to the UK and

and the ways income can be generated and costs

become a reality in Britain?

do something different, and once one or two of

reduced whilst providing an incredible service, then it becomes easier.

those local trusts are persuaded, then the rest NBN: Absolutely they can, and it makes a lot of

will talk to each other. It’s a slow process, but

sense: like us, you have a lot of old hospitals

they’ve just announced a new programme of

VS: Especially in Central London, if you have

and very shortly the UK is going to have a huge

hospitals, so now would be the time.

a primary care site where you have the option

increase in the elderly demographic, which will

for that step-up, step-down combination, then

be a massive strain.

why couldn’t you have that additional room basis for non-acute patients?

projects across its estate, developers and hospital JM: They should be already I think, and they

chiefs alike are presented with an opportunity to

have clearly improved things in Europe. What

potentially revolutionise the healthcare landscape.

Whilst patient hotels could potentially face obstacles

needs to change though? What we’ve discussed

For patients this could mean a new frontier of

in the form of bureaucratic processes involved in

today makes it obvious that we could and

comfort and hospitality, and improvements to the

altering an already strained health service, as well as

definitely should.

treatment experience, whilst for operators and

public perception of allowing private backers into an

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As the NHS gears up for a series of expansive building

developers it offers an entirely new revenue stream.

historically public system, there was optimism that

EMH: There is potential, though I doubt

Who knows? The days of the waiting room as a

these could be overcome if the concept were carefully

my company could due to political hurdles.

daunting prospect might soon be up.

©H Helen elen C Cathcart/Belmond ath athca at hca ca rtt/ car t/B //B Be elm lm l mon m on ond nd nd

INTERIOR FIT OUT SPECIALIST TO

- BELMOND CADOGAN HOTEL CHELSEA, LONDON

SHORTLISTED FOR AHEAD EUROPE 2019 LOBBY & PUBLIC SPACES

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

|

LIFESTYLE beckinteriors

|

MUSEUMS BECK

|

BESPOKE

Email Vanessa Budd a t vbudd@beckinteriors.com

© Philip Durrant

© Helen Cathcart

174

SPOTLIGHT

Beck to the Future Celebrating its 25th year of business throughout 2019, fit-out specialist BECK Interiors has helped facilitate the visions of international brands and maverick hoteliers alike during a period of immense change.

F

or 25 years, BECK Interiors has played a

perhaps the diversity of both service and

Following this decidedly atypical project

vital role in the hotel landscape. A fit-out

portfolio that has groups including Rosewood,

was the debut of a globe-spanning brand in

specialist, the company’s work forms the

Four Seasons and W Hotel seeking its expertise,

the form of an expansive design-and-build

foundations upon which a brand or designer

and keeps institutions from Sheraton Grand

refurbishment for Hard Rock Hotel London,

projects their vision, and ensures interior spaces

to The Lanesborough coming back for more.

which saw the firm transform the ground floor

are suitable for occupation by discerning guests.

Differing vastly in scope, scale and style, The

of the former Cumberland Hotel into retail

“BECK has been associated with hotels for

Mandrake, Belmond Cadogan and Hard Rock

space, a VIP lounge, lobby and cocktail bars,

the last 25 years, since its formation in 1994,”

Hotel London – all completed in the last two

a café and stage. Working with designers Scott

explains Chris Galloway, Group Managing

years – may seem far removed, yet have the

Brownrigg, the process saw the property remain

Director and co-owner. “With our in-house

consistent efforts of BECK running through

operational throughout, and demonstrates how

services including design development, hand-

their respective delivery processes.

BECK has adapted to facilitate the changing face of hospitality design.

crafted joinery and MEP services management,

The Mandrake – a chic fever dream of curated

we are pivotable in being the main stakeholder

art and intimate oddity, and largely the singular

“Hotels have become more of a social hub,”

for our clients.”

vision of owner Rami Fustok – saw BECK

Galloway adds. “So public spaces like these and

Having joined the company in the ‘90s and

facilitate the project of an auteur with a highly

the offer they provide to both guests and locals

risen through its ranks, Galloway holds a unique

specific final product in mind. Comprising the

is paramount for the next generation.”

perspective on how both the roles of the fit-

fit-out of 34 guestrooms and a penthouse, as

The firm is currently keeping busy with the

out specialist and hotels at large have shifted

well as public spaces, back of house areas and

topping out of NoMad London for Sydell Group

in this time. He has watched, then directed the

the eye-catching landscaped external terrace,

– occupying the Grade II-listed former Bow

company as it grew from 13 people in 1994 to

the project exhibits the specialist nature in which

Street Magistrates Court and marking the first

over 250 in 2019, and spread from its original

the firm can operate, facilitating solutions from

of the acclaimed brand to open outside North

Mitcham and Guilford bases to encompass

bespoke joinery and glazed partition walls to

America – and looking ahead to a refurbishment

offices in the Middle East, Asia and USA.

an audio-visual system that would complement

of Belgravia’s Jumeirah Carlton Tower, the

the idiosyncratic guest experience.

latest volume in a relationship with the property

In addition to the hotel portfolio touched on

lasting over 20 years.

here, the firm’s work has further included prime

“The Mandrake is a fantastic concept,”

residential, luxury retail and museum visitor

Galloway explains. “We were able to bring

“We are driven to deliver supreme quality

centre projects, allowing it to draw solutions

our in-house expertise to the forefront of this

in all that we do, an ethos shared by our

and inspiration from a variety of forms – a

project with the eccentric ideas that Rami and

longstanding and dedicated specialist supply

valuable fluidity in a time where the lines

his interior design team visualised. The first

chain,” Galloway concludes. “Because just like

between previously defined environments have

thing we do is understand what the vision is,

in the hospitality, retail and museum world,

become increasingly blurred.

as well as the brief and how we can tailor our

the smallest detail reflects who we are, and I

services to suit, because it’s vital that each

believe BECK has brought consistent quality to

project is considered in its own right.”

each project we deliver.”

But whilst personnel growth and geographical spread has no doubt raised its profile, it is

175

SPOTLIGHT

Fabrics, Wallcoverings & Surfaces From nature-inspired colour palettes to striking geometric designs, we take a look at the latest innovations shaping the world of fabrics, wallcoverings and surfaces.

Arte’s Velveteen collection brings depth and pronounced structure to walls using ribbed vertical lines

SPOTLIGHT

1.

2.

3.

178

4.

1. Valentina Mandarin Stone

2. Raku Claybrook

3. Larvikite Lundhs Real Stone

4. Antiquary Zoffany

Sourced from Norway, Mandarin Stone’s Valentina marble offers an amalgamation of shades including blush pink, orange, white, grey and touches of green. The range – available in a brick format as well as a herringbone and hexagonal mosaic design – has a smooth, honed surface finish that complements the soft, natural patterns visible in the marble. It joins a wider collection of tiles that includes Calacatta, a honed hexagon marble mosaic, and Verdi Capri, a subtle green herringbone pattern. Founded over 20 years ago as a small family-run business, Mandarin Stone has grown significantly, with 11 showrooms across the UK and two more set to open next year. www.mandarinstone.com

Comprising a series of distinctively glazed brick tiles, Claybrook’s Raku range is characterised by the selection of jewel-toned hues. Inspired by the nobility of the Japanese ceramic process from which they take their name, Raku is available in six shades including blue and green options and an outlined white colourway, with designs such as Chiba, Sendai, Sapporo, Yono, Kyoto, Tokyo and Yokohoma taking their cue from past and present cities from across the island nation (the latter seen above). The range offers a high level of colour variation within each production batch thanks to the unique glazes applied reacting to the heat of the kiln. www.claybrookstudio.co.uk

The result of minerals melting and mixing under extreme heat, Larvikite is a high-density and non-porous surface resistant to heat, water, scratch, UV and stain damage. Extracted from Lundhs Real Stone’s own quarries in Norway, Larvikite is found in the mountains of Larvik and features no added quartz or man-made materials in its composition. A complex blend of feldspar crystals, each piece is unique and can be specified in three different materials and two distinct surface finishes. The stone joins a portfolio that includes Lundhs Antique, a dark brown background garnished with blue crystals, and Lundhs Blue, emulating the colour of a clear sky and sea. www.lundhs.no

The Antiquary collection from Zoffany comprises a portfolio of ten prints, weaves and embroideries designed to work in harmony with the brand’s wider catalogue. New and archive designs are blended with European and Asian influences to form striking floral, leaf and paisley motifs that complement Zoffany’s Alchemy of Colour paint collection. The versatile designs – including Bizarre, Cosmati, Dessert Flower, Indienne, Koyari, Oiseaux, Prismatic, Richmond and Suzani – are each offered in multiple colourways and can be integrated within a host of settings, combining quality craftsmanship with artistic integrity to create a range both intriguing and opulent. www.stylelibrary.com/zoffany

Tessello, Rough Concrete, Rising Tide, Leaves, Sorrento, Envy

Entwine

Wallcoverings for commercial interiors, made in the UK Stocked | bespoke | designer | dry erase | window graphics 01938 551 990, sales@newmor.com

newmor.com

SPOTLIGHT

1.

2.

3.

4.

180

1. Oslo Skopos

2. Fragmenta Ariostea

3. Equilibrium Edmund Bell

4. Jet Set & Parisienne Zinc Textiles

Tapping into the ever-popular trend of geometric design, Oslo combines neat graphic outlines with softer, natural forms.

The patterns feature a composition of triangles, squares, circles and diamonds, which come together with horizontal stripes in a mix of bright colours and muted Nordic tones. The Oslo print is available on over 14 base-cloths such as bedding, drapes and upholstery, as well as velvets, linen-look and waterproof fabrics, and a new blackout drape. The versatility of the collection, together with its meeting of flame-retardant standards, make it highly compatible for soft furnishings in a range of modern hospitality environments. www.skoposfabrics.com

The latest collection of full-body tiles from Ariostea combine technical performance with aesthetic finesse. Available in Soft, Levigato Lucidato and Strutturato options, the Fragmenta tiles feature a compact structure and a grey-blue background that is overlapped with uneven tone-ontone elements of different sized pebbles.

The balanced colour nuances range from white to black, light to medium grey and beige to brown, recreating the shades and patterns of real stone. The range is available in traditional sizes of 60x30, 60x60 and 120x60cm sizes with a 10mm thickness, making it versatile and adaptable to interior design schemes from classic to contemporary. www.ariostea-high-tech.com

Edmund Bell’s Equilibrium range features slub profile threads weaved alongside flat threads to create gnarled knots and a stylish, rugged texture. Taking influence from wooden effects, the drape weave can work independently or be mixed and matched with any of the range’s 24 colours, with more than half of the shades being neutral, such as zinc, jet, ivory and peppercorn. Possessing fire-retardant properties, the versatile products can be used for both narrow wide-width curtains as well as bed valances and other interior accessories. Edmund Bell has also recent launched the Art Deco-inspired Soho Club collection, which comprises the Belgravia, Grosvenor, Bond, Eaton and Elixir fabrics. www.edmundbell.com

Zinc Textiles has added the Jet Set and Parisienne lines to its growing fabrics range. The former comprises a retro geometric and distressed design alongside a fluid moiré and an all-over textured weave, which is accompanied by a plush plain and wide width semi-sheer.

The series also offers fire-retardant curtaining qualities and is available in modest neutral colours and jewel-like shades such as Rouge, Empress Green, Cognac and Ochre. Placing its focus on velvet meanwhile, Parisienne features a retro chequerboard and striking candy stripe design that complements its silky appearance and texture, while a luxe, free moiré weave rounds off the collection. www.zinctextile.com

SPOTLIGHT

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182

4.

1. Pure Brand Milano Projects

2. Marmo & Concrete Hi-Macs

3. Set in Stone DuPont Tedlar

4. Velveteen Arte

Consultancy firm Brand Milano Projects has teamed up with furniture maker Nalesso to launch Pure, a custom-made chaise longue that brings together textile and design expertise. The product’s fire-rated padding allows it to be used in interior spaces like the guestroom or lobby, while a selection of outdoorspecific upholstery also mean it is suitable for gardens and terraces. Manufactured in Italy, Pure can be paired with a series of beds, sofas and ottomans from Nalesso’s wider portfolio. Brand Milano Projects represents a number of Italian producers, spanning sectors such as fabrics and rugs, glass and flooring wood, and upholstery and furniture. www.brandmilanoprojects.com

Hi-Macs has added new colours to its Marmo and Concrete collections: Marmo has gained the Aurora Bianco and Aurora Grey shades, reflecting the soft beauty of natural marble patterns with added touches inspired by the aurora seen in the Polar regions; while the Concrete collection now features Pavia, which boasts a pristine, white-marble style with translucent properties, and Sanremo, which introduces contrast thanks to its dramatic black veined pattern. In-keeping with currently interior design schemes found throughout Europe and beyond, the two additional tones boast all the aesthetic qualities of real concrete without any of the material’s constraints. www.himacs.eu

The latest pattern in DuPont Tedlar’s avant-garde collection, Set in Stone resembles the look of concrete and allows designers to conceptualise new uses for the texture. Available in a variety of colours such as slate, cement, clay, pebble, sand and salt, the range is versatile and adds dimension and depth to interior spaces. A durable protective film also means that the wallcovering is both highly resilient to tough stains and resistant against industrial-strength cleaning products such as bleach and common acids. Set in Stone joins a wider series that includes the Alloy and Sequoia patterns, named respectively for their patina metal and wood looks. www.dupont.com

Bringing a touch of elegance to interior spaces, Arte’s new Velveteen wallcoverings collection comprises four patterns – Twirl, Tetra (seen above), Vector and Ridge – each of which features fragmented circles and ribbed vertical lines in a 20-strong palette of soft pastels, nudes and deep primary colours.

The brand’s use of innovative threedimensional technology brings further depth and pronounced structure to the wall, whilst the addition of soft-touch velvets with clear nuances mean that light markings – characteristic of the material – will appear in the deeper parts of the pattern and contribute to the overall charm of the 3D wallcovering. www.arte-international.com

Sun d a n ce with MGX™ MorGuard Xtreme topcoat

A clean break from the norm www.morberneurope.com/sundancechallenge

SPOTLIGHT

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184

4.

1. Boiserie Nicholas Haslam

2. Custom Newmor

3. Studio 10 Delius

4. Enjoyable Outdoors Dedar

For the Boiserie collection, Nicholas Haslam partnered with San Patrignano, an Italian-based, non-profit foundation teaching the art of craftsmanship to those suffering from drug addiction.

Nine selected wallpapers from the charity’s specialised workshops make up a range that balances luxury, sophistication and eclecticism with values of social commitment and sustainability.

Each design originates from a handproduced piece of art first printed onto environmentally friendly, non-woven wallpaper, before being hand-finished by the residents of San Patrignano and coated with a porous layer to enhance and protect the design. www.nicholashaslam.com

Newmor has added three new textured fabric-backed vinyl wallcoverings and a bespoke collection to its Custom range.

The embossed wallcoverings include Marrakech, a Moorish-inspired metallic print on a textured weave base; Rebus, an industrial background with a tactile emboss and subtle print; and Entwine (seen here), a painterly take on stone effects, with scalloped shapes and an organic texture, reminiscent of cobbled pathways. Joining the trio is Get Arty, a hand-painted wallcovering that has been scanned at high resolution and digitally manipulated to form unique designs that can be recoloured, rescaled and printed onto any of Newmor’s base materials. www.newmor.com

The Studio 10 collection from Delius features 23 pieces in ten versatile colours, at the centre of which are the sophisticated Niva and Calito jacquards.

The range is enriched by premium wools, transparent fabrics and functional dimouts and blackouts, while upholstery fabrics complement the concept too; the classically structured Finn pattern, for example, can be paired with an upholstery fabric from the brand’s Deligard series. 3D-knitted fabrics such as Flux, Drop and Haze also catch the eye, differing from standard upholstery fabrics with the interaction of its knitting technique and a soft voluminous weft, which gives the material extra volume. www.delius-contract.de

Offering practicality, durability and vibrancy, Dedar’s Enjoyable Outdoors collection comprises 26 distinct patterns including Campus, a geometric motif on a panama weave base that nods to the summer season and outdoor activities.

Combining acrylic and polypropylene fibres, the fabrics are high-performance and resistant to light, abrasion, salt, chlorine, mould and moisture, ensuring the colours remain radiant over time.

The range can be washed and dried easily, with the acrylic fabrics also holding water-repellent properties, making them suitable for use across difficult environments such as terraces, boats, at spas, gardens or pools. www.dedar.com

New Egger Decorative Collection Preview at SLEEP & EAT 2019 www.egger.com/signup2020

Stefania Chalakatevaki Architect

Sleep, Eat, Design. Wake up to our brand new global decorative collection at SLEEP & EAT (Stand B60). Get more from EGGER with new decors, textures, matching products and digital services. Don’t miss the chance to preview the new collection, including our award-winning PerfectSense, Feelwood and worktop ranges. Launching Feb 2020. >> Sign up for your new Decor Reference Guide now egger.com/signup2020

EGGER_2020_Signup_Sleeper_236x275.indd 1

10/10/2019 17:12:01

SPOTLIGHT

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2.

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186

4.

1. Opera Designers Guild

2. Elodie 1838

3. PerfectSense Lawcris

4. CementMix VitrA

Comprising three different designs, the Essentials Opera collection offers both charm and easy-clean finishes for demanding interior schemes. The Opera fabric is a velvet with a dense, luxurious pile and soft sheen, available in 35 colours ranging from neutral to vivid shades; Vezzano is cleverly constructed from a combination of textured yarns to create a rich boucle appearance, offered in 28 colours; and Skye, available in 35 colours, is a melange weave crafted from a blend of yarns to create a natural look and feel. Both Opera and Vezzano are constructed from 100% polyester, whilst Skye is a combination of acrylic, polyester, viscose and linen. www.designersguild.com

Taking its inspiration from the Art Deco movement, the Elodie wallcoverings collection by 1838 comprises eight designs: Emile – available in eight colourways; Metro – in seven; Le Toucan – in six; Astoria – in five; and Elodie, Rosetta, Maison and Clarice – all offered in four shades. Combining various styles with craftsmanship and luxurious materials, the range is rich in colour, incorporating elegant embellishments with curved forms and geometric lines that look to channel the essence of the 1920s through a contemporary lens.

Thanks to the use of traditional surfaceprinting techniques, the patterns blend printed effects and luxurious substrates. www.1838wallcoverings.com

The PerfectSense range by Lawcris encompasses the PerfectSense, TopMatt (for vertical applications) and PerfectSense Plus collections, each of which features gloss and velvety boards in a selection of 25 soft neutral colours and material replicas such as Pearl Grey, Cashmere and Alpine White. Thanks to a unique UV coating, the lacquered boards are also scratch-resistant and robust to ensure they stand the test of time. To complete the look, edging is available in a variety of thicknesses and can be specifically matched to each design, texture and gloss level, while Lawcris also offers an edge-slitting service for bespoke requirements. www.lawcris.co.uk

Presented at international ceramic exhibition Cersaie in Bologna, the CementMix collection by VitrA is inspired by a minimalistic aesthetic and softens the traditional brutalist look of cement with a palette of six earthy colours; three warm and three cool options. Suitable for living spaces, bathrooms, swimming pools and terraces, the range reinterprets Terazzo-style patterns through the use of geometric speckles, natural stone and multicoloured marble chips, bringing a new dimension to floors and walls in the form of three variations: Fine, Micro and Flake. VitrA has also launched the Wood collection, which takes its cues from nature and organic tree patterns. www.vitra.co.uk

Leather and faux leathers available in a wide range of finishes and colours.

All Crib 5 as standard.

Automotive

Aviation

Healthcare

Hospitality

Marine

Residential

Workspace

Yarwood Leather has you covered. www.yarwoodleather.com

+44 (0) 113 252 1014 sales@yarwoodleather.com

@yarwoodleather

SPOTLIGHT

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3.

188

4.

1. Origin Yarwood Leather

2. Sundance Morbern

3. Decorative Egger

4. Maglia Spradling

A fixed distressed-look leather, Origin embraces the natural tonality and characteristics of the material whilst adding a durable and hard-wearing finish to ensure resilience. The range’s colour palette – which includes tones like Totem, Tapestry and Colosseum, the latter creating an aged look – draws inspiration from shades seen in cities, cultures and landmarks worldwide throughout history, with natural shades accompanied by rich greens, blues and vivid reds to embrace the distressed two-tone look. The range is treated to the Yarwood Leather benchmark of Crib5 and IMO as standard, meaning it is suitable for a variety of commercial seating projects. www.yarwoodleather.com

Morbern’s Sundance collection of coated fabrics are both stylish and practical, and have been designed to stand the test of time. Available in 36 different colours including Marine, Chocolate, Sangria and Bamboo, the fabrics are made from tightly woven textile grain with 100% polyester backing, while a MGX MorGuard Extreme cleanable topcoat further handles tough stains such as mustard, ketchup, lipstick and coffee. In addition to its easy-toclean properties, the range offers high resistance against abrasion, UV, mildew and bleach, together with a -32°c cold crack – making it a highly durable upholstery fabric suitable for application in both indoor and outdoor settings. www.morberneurope.com

Egger’s Decorative collection for 2020-22 is more diverse than ever, with over 250 designs featuring on-trend colours, textures and finishes that can be paired with matching boards, laminate and edging. The Austrian manufacturer has also added further options to its Feelwood range, expanding its choice of woodgrain finishes and introducing a number of luxurious material reproductions such as marble, granite and ceramic, as well as new solid colours to help designers achieve bolder aesthetics.

Meanwhile, the brand’s PerfectSense collection of lacquered boards has been refreshed with the addition of PerfectSense Plus and Topmatt. www.egger.com

Inspired by the Oxford textile pattern, Spradling’s Maglia features the natural appearance of a thick and thin yarn, providing comfort and style for both indoor and outdoor environments. The fabrics are available in 21 different colours – shades include Dessert, Alaska, Truffle, Driftwood, Rose, Coral, Clay, Goldenrod, Wisteria, Indigo, Aqua, Sky, Aegean, Viridian, Sage, Vanilla, Sapphire and Thunder – that complement the brand’s Silvertex and Valencia collections.

Protected against germs, abrasion and stains, the coated fabrics range further possesses fire resistant and impermeable properties, as well as being formaldehyde and phthalate-free. www.spradling.eu

www.treviracs.com

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20.08.19 11:11

England

7. – 10. 1. 2020

DU: 19.10.2019

the specialist programme for interior designers, architects and hospitality experts

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special interest

INTERIOR. ARCHITECTURE. HOSPITALITY.

SPOTLIGHT

Beds, Bedding & Mattresses Bedding manufacturers turn their attention to allergy-friendly solutions, as more travellers than ever strive for hypoallergenic environments.

E

ver woken up with an itch, grogginess or

Likewise, British manufacturer Naturalmat

other unpleasant feelings after sleeping in

has recently devised a unique combination of

a hotel bed? Those with allergies or asthma

wool (which acts as a natural fire retardant) and

will know the sensation all too well, but it turns

cotton, meaning its mattress covers do not need

out more and more of us are becoming familiar

to be treated with chemicals in order to pass

with it too. Looking to combat the ongoing

standard fire regulation checks. Though the

torment, mindful travellers are actively seeking

impact of toxic chemicals on human health and

hotels with hypoallergenic bedding options, and

the environment is evident, further research

they might just be in luck thanks to a growing

has identified links between these chemicals

number of properties focused on delivering the

and a rise in health conditions such as hormone

most important guest experience of all – a good

and thyroid disruption, cancer, and even brain

night’s sleep.

development in new-born children.

In a bid to provide quality shut-eye for

Meanwhile, providing an extra protection

the weary traveller, London-based start-up

process for hotel operators, Room To Breathe

Cuckooz has partnered with mattress maker

covers the entire spectrum of safeguarding,

Simba to create a boutique aparthotel specifically

from air purification systems and antimicrobial

engineered for sleep. While each apartment

surfacing coating to innovative UV cleaning

comes with typical facets like a living room,

technology and dust mite and bed bug

dining area and fully equipped kitchen, it’s the

treatment. The Glasgow-based firm also

bedroom that is at the heart of the concept,

offers hypoallergenic mattress protectors and

and more specifically, the bed; features include

pillowcases, guaranteeing an extra layer of

2,500 conical springs that support the neck,

defence for allergy and asthma sufferers.

hips and spine, a layer of responsive memory

In a world experiencing ever growing numbers

foam that moulds to the body, and a breathable,

of allergies, the bedding sector must focus on

hypoallergenic surface on which to lie.

prevention and protection going forward.

SPOTLIGHT

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3.

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4.

1. Accessories Piglet

2. The Ammique Bed Ammique

3. Iris Hästens

4. House Linen Naturalmat

British brand Piglet has introduced its first ever accessories collection of weighted throws and textured linen cushion covers.

Crafted from a signature fabric made using 100% natural stonewashed French flax, the cushion and throws feature a crinkled look and fringed edges, while a rich yet fresh colour selection enables them to be paired with all of the company’s bedding shades. The cushions are offered in 65cm x 65cm as standard, while the throws come in multiple sizes to drape over beds, sofas and chairs.

Bringing a layered, textured look to beds, Piglet’s linens are pre-washed for softness and to ensure they do not shrink, lose their shape or fade after regular use. www.pigletinbed.com

Engineered with performance, hygiene and sustainability in mind, Ammique’s mattress-free beds step away from the traditional model and throwaway mattress to offer hotel guests a unique sleep experience. Handcrafted at the brand’s factory in Somerset, England, the beds feature an adaptive outer frame with interchangeable panels built to complement different interior décors, as well as body-contouring technology featuring thousands of small plastic domed caps, which instantaneously yield to the shape, weight and movement of the user. Furthermore, all padding used on Ammique beds is removable and washable at 60 degrees. www.ammique.com

Created by Swedish-born fashion designer Lars Nilsson for Hästens, the Iris collection comprises two distinct patterns inspired by the many English gardens he visited when developing the collection.

Daisy Iris, a new interpretation of the brand’s signature Blue Check, features patterns drawn by hand using pencils, water colours, gouache and crayon in Nilsson’s unique style; while Lutyens Iris captures the colour combinations of the iris flower in graphical form, transferring the mood of floral gardens into fabric.

Both designs are available as pillowcases and down quilt covers with buttons, manufactured in 100% combed cotton satin with a thread count of 300. www.hastens.com

Naturalmat has launched House Linen, a new organic and environmentally friendly collection for its upholstered beds, pictured above with the Dartmouth range.

The heavyweight linen is made from pure Belgian flax certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), which incorporates both ecological and social criteria. Based out of Devon in southwest England, Naturalmat has built a reputation for its sustainability efforts over the last 20 years, creating a sleep environment that not only benefits the health and wellbeing of those using its products but also the environment by forging an ongoing commitment to cleaner supply, manufacture and disposal processes. www.naturalmat.co.uk

Designed with you and your guests in mind

1 0 0 ye a rs ex p e r t i se

Et hi c al so urc i ng

Main image: SmartdownÂŽ Duvet with recycled fibres

5 s t ar hot e l s up p li e r

Ad vance d f i bre t e c hnology

Eco fa ctory sta tu s

e: hospitality@finebeddingcompany.co.uk t: (+44)161 864 5632 www.finebedding.co.uk

SPOTLIGHT

1.

2.

3.

194

4.

1. Hotel Natural Splendour Sleepeezee

2. J.Marshall by Vispring Vispring

3. Smartdown The Fine Bedding Company

4. Anna Dux

The Hotel Natural Splendour pillow-top mattress from Sleepeezee provides uncompromising support and comfort, with a divan base, 3600 pocketed springs and 100% natural fillings such as horsehair, British wool with silk, cashmere and Talalay latex. The mattress comes with a luxurious soft knitted and tufted cover, while four rows of side stitching further help to provide edge-to-edge support and flag-stitched handles ensure easy mobility. Weighing in at 73.5kg and measuring 36cm deep, Hotel Natural Splendour is also offered with a zip and link option – allowing operators to join two single beds together for added flexbility and convenience. www.sleepeezee.com

British luxury bed maker Vispring has unveiled J.Marshall by Vispring, a new contemporary lifestyle brand aimed at a younger design-conscious consumer.

Combining pocket-sprung technology with premium materials, the debut collection features four hand-tufted mattresses in a choice of five sizes: single, double, king, super king and emperor. Each option uses a top layer of woven Belgian Damask, known as ticking, to create a feather-soft surface and smooth uninterrupted feel. Meanwhile, the brand’s shallow divan comes in 16 colourful fabrics that can be paired with the quartet of mattresses or customised with four different sizes of headboards. www.vispring.com

The Smartdown collection from The Fine Bedding Company comprises a selection of duvets and a soft yet supportive pillow, the former offered in size options of single, double, king and super king.

Introducing a new generation of ethically conscious products, the bedding also features extra fine fibres created from repurposed plastic PET bottles, which trap air for lofty volume, breathability and lightweight warmth. In addition, a pioneering fibre-blowing process produces down-like clusters that simulate the effect of premium Hungarian goose down and are encased in a soft 280 thread count, sustainably sourced BCI cotton cover and finished by hand. www.finebedding.co.uk

Designed by Norm Architects for Swedish manufacturer Dux, the Anna headboard combines Nordic materials and natural colours with a Japanese-inspired design – its frame is made from oiled oak and can be paired with a choice of fabrics in several colours. The Copenhagenbased studio wanted the headboard to connect with nature, as they believe that guests want to see fewer artificial materials, particularly in the bedroom.

They also took cues from architectural and sculptural perspectives, championing the idea that the bed is an integral part of the guestroom space and forms part of the interior architecture, going beyond its functionality to become a sculpture. www.dux.se

The future of sleep is mattress-free

The most sustainable and technologically advanced bed in the world with an exclusive lease plan tailored to the needs of the hospitality industry.

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S E E U S AT S L E E P & E AT STA N D J 5 0

S/S 2020

Bloomingville

12—14 January Olympia London

DESIGN

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Like you, we live and love design and that is why each season we search the globe to bring you the very best hospitality products in tableware, interior accessories and lighting in one inspiring space.

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SPECIFIER

SPECIFIER

Fold Astro Lighting Astro Lighting has launched the Fold collection, comprising wall, floor and table variants in contemporary finishes of matte black, white and nickel. The lights feature a simple structure that captures the moment a soft material is frozen as it drapes over a linear form, with a minimalist design fully adjustable thanks to a low glare shade crafted from folded metal. Soft illumination is produced from a linear LED chip tucked into the shade, while a clear frosted diffuser further protects the LED and delicately strews the light. www.astrolighting.com

000

SPECIFIER

COLLABORATION

The New Classic Laufen x Marcel Wanders Following Marcel Wanders’ collaboration with Laufen at Mondrian Doha – where he equipped 270 bathrooms with a mix of the brand’s standard products and bespoke pieces – the acclaimed designer has once again teamed up with the Swiss bathroom manufacturer, this time to create The New Classic.

Balancing both modern and traditional aesthetics, the collection comprises a bathtub, washbasin, bidet, toilets, bathroom furniture and accessories – all of which combine soft shapes and harmonious forms.

“Laufen’s brief didn’t ask for a modern collection, nor did it ask for a classic one. All it asked for was a collection that it didn’t already have,” says Wanders. “We wanted to create a perfect intermediate range that would build a bridge between the cold and rigid architecture and the subject standing within it. The New Classic creates this transition perfectly.”

Crafted from SaphirKeramik, the series features thin, elegant edges around the brims of its bathtubs and basins – an effect

198

that is almost impossible to execute using other materials.

The ceramic’s composition also incorporates corundum, a colourless component of sapphire that ensures the products are equally as robust as they are slender and stylish.

Joined by Marc Viardot, Director of Marketing and Products at Laufen, Wanders presented the collection in his home country of the Netherlands last month, showcasing the products within a historical 19th century home in Haarlem – a backdrop that had been thoughtfully selected to complement the range: “We chose to present it in this traditional and theatrical venue, but the pieces actually work in a host of different settings,” Wanders continues. “We could have done this presentation in an extremely modern building too and the products would have been just as well-suited.

There is a complexity in the collection’s name, it really is both new and classic.” www.laufen.com

HOSPITALITY ART ADVISORY HO S PI TA L I T Y • C OR P OR AT E • M U LT I-FA M I LY • H E A LT HC A R E

Complimentary Advisory Services to the Trade

At Saatchi Art we help clients all over the world to transform spaces into unique and memorable experiences.

Whether it’s a luxury hotel, cruise ship, resort, corporate office, healthcare facility or multi-family property, we provide creative art programs featuring works by the world’s most exciting emerging artists.

SA ATCHIART.COM/TR ADE

• Original works and prints for guestrooms and public spaces

• Custom sculptures

• Custom framing options

• Wall coverings

• Printing on multiple surfaces, including mirrors

• Custom headboards • Installation services

SPECIFIER

200

COLLABORATION

CASE STUDY

The Hakwood Collection by Kelly Hoppen Hakwood

Mr. C Coconut Grove Chelsom

Having applied her signature style to hotels, cruise ships, spas and restaurants across the globe, British designer Kelly Hoppen MBE has now teamed up with Hakwood to take on the tile market. Launched in celebration of the brand’s 40th anniversary, The Hakwood Collection by Kelly Hoppen is built around simplicity, colour and shape, comprising six interchangeable designs: Line, which features linear metal dashes set upon neutral, colour washed wood; Cube, which subtly combines natural and industrial tones with four metal corner cubes set against a backdrop of the finest wood; and Signature, an Art Deco-inspired style that plays with illusion, structure and shadow. Adding to that are the Grid tile, which features a canvas of vertical strips in varying dimensions; Square, a contemporary optical illusion that explores the aesthetic and architecture of squares through classic colours; and V, which nods to the traditional herringbone pattern by blending diagonal slats into a unique jigsaw to create a striking V shape. Each design is available in a range of colours including Fossil, Silver, Mineral, Basalt, Bronze, Flint and Chalk. www.hakwood.com

Chelsom has collaborated with Martin Brudnizki Design Studio to create a bespoke lighting scheme for the guestrooms and public areas of Mr.C Coconut Grove in Miami. In the reception, lobby and Bellini’s – the main restaurant and bar area – a selection of Art Deco-inspired fittings include delicate glass wall lights with brass detailing and decorative table lamps featuring domed glass shades, with brass metalwork adorning banquet seating and coupled with classic brass picture lights to frame various artworks. Toadstool shaped lights with perforated brass shades adorn the bar area and complement a statement pendant above, while an oversized shade-style pendant in cream with brass trim detail is suspended from a canopy. In the guestrooms meanwhile, bespoke ceiling pendants encompass six opal glass globes branching out from a central stem, with larger double-tiered versions (seen here) installed in the suites.

Elsewhere, elegant floor lamps in brushed brass are paired with tapered cylindrical shades in cream linen. www.chelsom.co.uk

www.treviracs.com

Trevira CS Advertisement „Fabric for Ideas“ Size 236x275mm for Création Baumann „Sleeper Oct.2019“

FABRIC FOR IDEAS

Plan with more safety.

With the new flame retardant Trevira CS fabrics.

Diversify your designs.

With the unique designs of the current ACOUSTIC collection from Création Baumann AG.

9

Expect more. www.creationbaumann.com Trevira_Anz_Fabric-for-Ideas_engl_236x275_Baumann_Sleeper, Ausgabe_Okt_2019.indd 1

15.10.19 16:49

SPECIFIER

EVENT

Toto x Sleeper Omotenashi: The Culture of Japanese Hospitality To celebrate the launch of Toto’s new Washlet RW, Sleeper hosted an exclusive panel with the bathroom supplier at its London showroom in October. ‘Omotenashi: The Culture of Japanese Hospitality’ explored the heritage of hospitality in Japan, as well as the influence its design philosophy is having on hotel interiors around the world.

Joining Sleeper’s Assistant Editor Ben Thomas on stage were Irini Vladimirova, Lead Designer at 1508 London, who has recently worked on The Lanesborough Club and the Raffles Residences at the Old War Office in London; and Floyd Case, Project and Branding Manager, Europe and Asia, at Toto.

Vladimirova kicked things off with a presentation on her first-time experiences in

202

Japan following a visit with Toto earlier this year, explaining what sets the destination apart: “There is a significant difference between hospitality in Japan and other regions,” she noted. “The attention to detail is truly elevated and the people are some of the greatest hosts in the world.”

Case agreed, noting that everyday life in the country is invisibly glued together with a common mindset, centred on caring for others rather than expectation: “It’s what makes visiting Japan feel like you have left the world you know and been transported to another more beautifully refined place,” he reflected.

“Products like the washlet have evolved within this cultural DNA – the fact that the seat warms, it pre-cleans itself and the lid lifts to greet

guests are not just features, they are mindful actions of hospitality ready to accept your use.”

The panellists went on to discuss the advantages of the new Toto washlet, including its water-saving performance and hygiene qualities such as the eWater+ and Clean Case technology, before Vladimirova evaluated Japan’s global influence from a design perspective: “Almost every design strategy oriented around contemporary and minimal is somehow linked to the Japanese stylistic,” she mused. “Everything from the way dishes are presented to the feel of the space says restrained elegance. In a way, there is something timeless that is very appealing to designers around the world.” www.toto.com

URBAN

RUG Collection by Hotel Logistics

World’s premier provider of quality carpets to the hotel industry since 1958 Enquiries: sales@hotellogistics.co.uk

E M E A P a r t n e r:

HOTEL LOGISTICS

Studio 30, The Creative Media Centres, 07 Northumberland Street, Huddersfield, UK, HD1 1RL

SPECIFIER

Miena Kaldewei Designed by Anke Solomon, the Miena washbasin bowls from Kaldewei combine a delicate appearance with durability and robustness thanks to a steel enamelled structure. Offered in finishes of alpine white as well as matte shades from the brand’s Coordinated Colours Collection – including Catania grey, city anthracite, lava black, oyster grey, prairie beige and seashell cream – the washbasins will be presented during Sleep & Eat alongside other items from Kaldewei’s 100% recyclable Iconic Bathroom Solutions, including floor-level shower surface Nexsys and undercounter washbasins from the Centro, Classic, Cono and Silenio ranges. During the event at Olympia London, visitors will also have the opportunity to put the group’s steel enamel to the test in the Material Experience zone, using nail varnish, a wire brush and a Bunsen burner to show the durability of the scratch, impact, heat and chemical resistant material. www.kaldewei.com

CASE STUDY

The Ritz-Carlton, Berlin Feuring Feuring Hotel Development has carried out complex renovation works at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Berlin, which reopened in March of this year following a €40 million two-and-a-half-year refurbishment. In developing the interior design scheme, which takes its inspiration from the Roaring Twenties to reflect the lavish lifestyle of the city’s film and cabaret heyday, as well as the modernity of the cultural capital, the German firm – this year celebrating its 20th anniversary – was tasked with handling the FF&E, electrical systems, technical facilities, plumbing, heating and drywall installation, while the project team on the ground also took responsibility in co-ordinating the design. And, though as many as 150 tradespeople were active in the building during peak phases, Feuring planned the work in stages, with discretion and sound judgment to ensure that guests would not notice their activities whilst eating, sleeping or simply passing through the lobby. www.feuring.info

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HOSPITALITY INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES

Living Design AB Brovägen 1, 18276 Stocksund, Sweden T: +46 8 755 17 65 info@livingdesign.com

FIND OUT MORE AT LIVINGDESIGN.COM

SPECIFIER

Taylor Stellar Works Stellar Works has revealed its Taylor collection by Yabu Pushelberg, featuring a range of sofas, chairs, tables and a cabinet. The Taylor dining chair is wooden-framed with modern, chamfer details and a flushed seat surface that integrates the upholstery from seat to frame, whilst the matching dining table is intricately designed and available in soap-finished walnut. The bar and counter stools also feature chamfer details and a flushed seat surface, while the sofa is a sectional piece with soft curves and minimal upholstery details in the seat, back and armrests. Echoing the lines in the sofa, the lounge chair is multidimensional in shape and form. www.stellarworks.com

Kodo Vincent Sheppard Inspired by the versatile possibilities of marrying different materials, the Kodo collection from Vincent Sheppard blends natural ceramic, industrial aluminium and tactile acrylic rope to create furniture that is contemporary and weather-resistant, yet comfortable thanks to soft curves, rounded backs and snug cushions that exude a warm and inviting ambience. Designed by Belgium-based Studio Segers – known for its deep respect for context and use of sustainable materials – the series comprises a lounge chair, lounge sofa, cocoon, footrest, side table, coffee table, dining chair and table, each of which can be deployed indoors or outdoors. www.vincentsheppard.com

Reframe Corner Shelf Unidrain Unidrain has introduced its new Reframe corner shelf – part of the Reframe Collection created by Danish designer Kenneth Waaben. The shelf adapts to the shape of the corner in which it is placed, catering for spaces that may not necessarily be an exact 90-degree angle, while an anti-slip barrier also ensures that items will stay put even when wet, and a discreet groove enables excess water to drain away easily. Driven by the ethos of improving upon existing products, Unidrain has crafted the ledge from a reinforced steel plate in five colour options: copper, brass, brushed stainless steel, hand-polished stainless steel and black. www.unidrain.com

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Industry Experts in Interiors & Bespoke Joinery Setting The Standard Since 1897

Tel: 0116 2706946 25 Morris Road, Leicester, Le2 6AL www.eemith.co.uk Social @eesmithcontracts

SPECIFIER

Q&A

Frederick Trzcinski Ideal Standard Sleeper caught up with Frederick Trzcinski, Marketing & Innovation Director, Middle-East & Africa at Ideal Standard, during The Hotel Show in Dubai to discuss technology, water consumption and the future of bathroom design.

What impact has technology had on bathroom design?

It’s critical. Ideal Standard is looking to go into this new era of design with a deep involvement of technology. We have to be innovative and we are always searching for new novelties, whether it’s in the material of the ceramic or technology like Aquablade, which reduces sound and features advanced performance qualities in terms of hygiene and water consumption. We believe the right recipe is a balance between design and technology.

How is technology helping to improve water consumption?

We invented the ceramic disc cartridge and the Click technology, which reduces water consumption by 50%, as well as the integrated flow regulator that can save between 40 and 80 litres when having a typical seven minute shower compared with having a bath. We have also introduced a dual-flush on our toilets, so we are always thinking of how to integrate the relevant technology for water consumption, which is in the mind of the consumer nowadays. We need to be responsible towards our planet, but at the same time, saving water can also reduce costs for operators and hotel managers, which continues to be pivotal in the Middle East.

Circular Leds C4 Created by Benedito Design for Grok, part of the Leds C4 group, the Circular range balances technology and decoration to accomplish maximum expression with minimum materials.

Launched in a new version that directs the light inwards during I Saloni Moscow, an international design fair aimed at the Russian and Eastern markets, the light fitting offers greater versatility thanks to a combination of formats and finishes, while further flexibility is achieved through its extruded aluminium profiles, which can be hung as an individual pendant or combined to create a chandelier. www.leds-c4.com

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Where do you see bathroom design headed in the future?

For the coming years I believe that colour will make a comeback. We had colours in the ‘70s and ‘80s that were very popular, and in Dubai today you still find bathrooms with these shades. We’re not planning on introducing bold tones, but more soft taupe colours that create a sanctuarystyle environment. The idea of matte versus glossy is also important when it comes to fittings, which could move away from the traditional stainless steel finishes towards more grey or gold in the region.

And what’s next for Ideal Standard?

We’re currently focusing on our partnership with master of international design, Roberto Palomba, and his deep involvement in the company after becoming our Chief Design Officer. On top of that, we have launched a new company claim of ‘Together for Better’ – we want to keep that in mind when developing new products for better use, better living and better interaction for consumers. www.idealstandardgulf.com

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

www.TOPHOTELDESIGN.com

SPECIFIER

ANNIVERSARY

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65th Anniversary McCue Crafted Fit

SensoWash Starck F Duravit

Northern Irish project management and fit-out specialist McCue Crafted Fit will celebrate the milestone of 65 years in business this November, having completed a number of prestigious projects throughout its lifespan.

Established in 1954 by James F. McCue, the firm has built a reputation for its expert craftsmanship – the majority of which takes place at its 5,500m2 bespoke joinery workshop in Carrickfergus on the outskirts of Belfast – at luxury hotels such as Four Seasons Hotel at Ten Trinity Square, Shangri La at The Shard, The Berkeley and more recently The Standard in London – where it renovated the entire ground floor area including the lobby, foliage-filled restaurant and the colourful Double Standard Bar designed by Shawn Hausman.

“To reach 65 years in business, overcoming the trying times the industry has endured, is a fantastic testament to our team and I’d like to thank Managing Director Les McCracken, who has been an exceptional leader,” says Managing Director Designate, Gary Purdy. “In the last 32 years, under his stewardship, the company has achieved great things and we will build on that in the years to come.” www.mccuefit.com

Duravit has expanded its shower toilet collection by Philippe Starck with the SensoWash Starck f Plus and SensoWash Starck f Lite models. Both can be conveniently operated via a remote control or configured using an app, with functions like the flush and odour extraction system active if the wall-mounted element is combined with an A2 electronic actuator plate. Technical finishing touches including motion sensors for automatic cover opening – set via the user ID in the seat – guarantees comfort along with additional options such as seat heating, shower flow and a controllable hot air dryer, while the brand’s rimless technology and HygieneGlaze 2.0 improve water flow and hygiene standards respectively. The technology has also been reorganised, and is now housed within the ceramic body to create a minimalist design, with the flat seat boasting a height of just 40mm and the white cover located behind it forming a flush-mounted unit. The toilet seat is made from an especially rugged material and like the cover is extremely hygienic thanks to its strach-resistant, pore-free surface. www.duravit.co.uk

www.tektura.com

SPECIFIER

Equipal Chair Luteca Originally designed as a dining or desk chair by Mexican architect Pedro Ramirez Vazquez in 1964, Equipal features over 55 separate components that are individually hand-bent and meticulously hand-sewn with leather or velvet upholstery. Crafted in stainless steel with a chrome or polished brass finish, the chair is the most complex design within the Luteca collection – deriving from an unexpected mix of influences and the dynamic between past and present – which is made up of pieces such as the San Miguelito armchair, designed in the 1940s by Michael van Beuren. www.luteca.com

Kraken Ferreira de Sá Presented during Decorex International, the hand-tufted Kraken rug

by Ferreira de Sá is crafted from a combination of mohair, botanical silk and visrayon. Suitable for various interior spaces thanks to its unique shape – from stair-runner and presidential suite to corridor and lobby – the rug joins a wider collection of over 500 striking carpets and patterns, each of which can be produced in all kinds of textures such as high or low pile, cut and loop. www.ferreiradesa.pt

He & She Chairs Mater Launched to celebrate the 100th anniversary of German architect Walter Gropius, who founded the Bauhaus modernist art school in 1919, the He & She Chairs by Mater feature seats and backrests crafted from FSC certified oak and canework made from rattan – a fast growing and naturally harvested material that supports the brand’s sustainability efforts – as well as bend steel frames that add extra flexibility. Designed by Eva Harlou, CEO of Earth Studio, the He chair boasts wide shoulders and comfortable, supporting armrests, while the She model is more elegant with softer curves. www.materdesign.com

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Architecture and design recruitment. By Dezeen.

www.dezeenrecruit.com

SPECIFIER

Ledtube Marset As part of Marset’s Young Talents 2019 initiative, which aims to fosters meaningful collaborations with emerging artists, London-based photographer Tais Sirote partnered with set designer Philip Bailey to showcase one of the brand’s more classic, functional designs – the Ledtube. Based on the characteristics of the lamps, with their flexibility and ability to move 360 degrees, the duo created surreal and dynamic spaces where the light is just as much the protagonist as its surroundings. Unexpected textures, spherical objects and sober colour palettes, arranged in an elegant setting, have helped generate a backdrop against which the metallic tube can take centrestage.

In developing the concept, Sirote decided to focus on contrast between the classic and the surreal: “I wanted to show that every lamp belongs to a different person, who has their own uses and scenarios which leads to endless possibilities, from the cutest and brightest to the darkest and most surreal.” www.marset.com

CASE STUDY

St. Regis Hotel Amman Lasvit Czech glassmaker Lasvit has collaborated with Muza Lab at The St. Regis Amman, filling its spaces with floral-inspired lighting crafted from delicate Bohemian crystal. Respecting Jordanian tradition and culture while introducing contemporary touches, installations begin in the lobby with Calla – which mirrors a bouquet of fresh flowers below using hand-blown petals in dark and medium violet glass – and continue in the form of a brushed nickel chandelier finished with opal glass. In the Iridium Spa entrance meanwhile, designer Ludmila Žilková took cues from Jordan’s national flower, Black Iris, to create a mesmerising fixture in hues of deep dark purple, lilac and white, while in the Tea Lounge, giant blossoms stretch their golden petals under the deli lounge’s ceiling. Beside the lobby, the Iridium Spa and the Tea Lounge, Lasvit also created lighting installations for the ballroom, pre-function area, retail lobby, VIP entrance and a number of serviced apartments. www.lasvit.com

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The new magazine making waves in the hospitality industry‌ Starboard focuses on the design and development of cruise ships, river boats, sleeper trains and aeroplanes.

Issue 3 coming soon. www.starboardmagazine.com

Baths. Shower Trays.

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Durable beauty Smooth hygiene

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100% NATURAL STONE FROM NORWAY Combining centuries of knowledge and the world’s strongest and unique natural materials, Lundhs has cemented its reputation as a leading provider of 100% real stone, supplying the commercial, residential and specification market across the globe.

Discover the beauty and diversity of LUNDHS Real Stone at www.lundhs.no

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HOTEL FOOD & DRINK

Tasca by José Avillez at Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai

CONTACT TO ADVERTISE OR SUBSCRIBE: SUPPER@MONDIALE.CO.UK • TEL: +44(0)161 476 5580 • WWW.SUPPERMAG.COM

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

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STAND

E44

The leading magazine for hotel design, development and architecture.

Subscribe online and save 20% www.sleepermagazine.com/showoffer/

Subscribers benefit from: • Previews of the most exciting projects breaking ground • Reviews of new hotels opening worldwide • In-depth interviews with leading hoteliers, interior designers and architects • Coverage of exhibitions and conferences for the hotel industry • Exclusive updates of Sleeper’s events including AHEAD – the global awards for hospitality experience and design – and Sleepover – the inventive event for hotel innovators For more information please contact: subscriptions@mondiale.co.uk

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

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ADVERTISING INDEX ISSUE 87

Newmor

179

005

Nicholas Haslam

063

Gebrüder Munzert

189

North 4 Design

223

035

Gervasoni

031

Perrin & Rowe

103

ALIS

216

Hakwood

053

Porcelanosa

227

Aliseo GmbH

025

HDE Expo Build

166

Preciosa

078

Ambiente

158

Heimtextil

190

Restoration Hardware

Ammique

195

HI Design

152 & 153

Ariostea

051

HMD Interiors

Arte

049

Hotel Logistics

Astro Lighting

002

Hypnos

Beck Interiors

173

Fine Bedding Company

AA Corporation

133

AD Associates

086

Gandia Blasco

AHK

125

Albrecht Jung

Benchmark Bette

111 217

193

010 & 011

Roca

091

045

Roman

127

203

Saatchi Art

199

117

Skopos Design

221

ICON

113

Sleep & Eat

140 & 141

Ideal Standard

105

Sleepeezee

121

Janus et Cie

006 & 007

S’N’S

077

Spradling

154

Stellar Works

109

Brintons

089

Kaldewei

171

CEA Design

139

Kalisher

065

Chelsom

029

Kettal Group

Claybrook

097

Klafs

055

Tapeçarias Ferreira de Sá

Creation Baumann

201

Kohler

061

Tarkett

057

Dedar

176

Kriska Decor

165

Tece

075

Delius

181

Laufen

228

Tektura

Deloitte EHIC

218

Leds - C4

083

Thomas Crapper

039

Dezeen

213

Ligne Roset

014

Top Drawer

196

Diamond Life

217

Living Design

205

Top Hotel Projects

209

DuPont

043

Lundhs

219

Tribu

019

Duravit

106

Mandarin Stone

046

Tuuci

071

Edmund Bell

219

MLE

092

UHS

134

EE Smith

207

Monitor Audio

119

Ulster Carpets

016

Egger

185

Morbern

183

Unidrain

163

Elstead Lighting

114

Morgan

161

Vincent Sheppard

027

EPR Architects

066

Muzeo

033

Vista Green

144

Feelgood Designs

223

Nalesso

041

Waterbury

221

Feuring

149

Naturalmat

085

Yarwood Leather

187

008 & 009

Style Library Contract

012 & 013 101

211

225

CHECK-OUT

Cool as Ice

Swedish Lapland’s Icehotel unveils a series of suite designs ahead of its winter re-opening.

Big coats at the ready! As layers of fresh snow

Elsewhere, a dedicated icebar – named

blanket Jukkasjärvi in mid-November, 18 artists

Welcome to TorneLand – will be surrounded by

from around the world will gather to create a new

frozen rollercoasters, carnival games and an ice-

hotel from just snow, ice and light.

carved hot-air balloon, and, in celebration of the

Overseen by Creative Director Luca Roncoroni,

hotel’s 30th anniversary, a special Ice Memories

the 15 suites – rebuilt every year with over 1,000

photography exhibition will showcase a selection

tonnes of ice harvested from the Torne River –

of the hotel’s most memorable designs.

include a ‘A Night At The Theatre’ based on a

Since the inaugural project in 1989, Icehotel

West End production complete with ice-carved

has welcomed over one million visitors. “In 1989

curtains, stage and frozen bed, and the ‘Bone

we had no idea how much attention our hotel

Room’, which honours the natural melting

made of ice and snow would receive,” founder

process of the hotel each spring as it dissolves

Yngve Bergqvist explains ahead of the December

back into the river. Guests can also choose from

re-opening. “But here we are, about to celebrate

sleeping next to a submerged iceberg, spending

Icehotel’s 30th anniversary, fantastic history and

the night with giant ice ants, settling down in a

its exciting future, which I’m so proud about.”

frozen feline lair or waking up in White Santorini, where stepped snow cubiforms are designed to mimic the Cyclade island’s distinctive vernacular.

© Haemee Han and Jaeyual Lee

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