Hotelier & Hospitality Design
AUGUST 2024
BERRYMAKERS: THE NEW HOME BERRIES MADE BETTER
Berrymakers, the new home of British Berries, has just launched officially this week. Introducing an entirely new way to buy and enjoy berries, Berrymakers will bring only the best tasting and sustainably grown British berries straight to your front door.
Berries are one of the UK’s most patriotic fruits and with berry sales continuing to soar Berrymakers is here to make buying British berries easier than ever. Available to purchase via the Berrymakers website www.berrymakers.co.uk all berries can be delivered UK wide or bought direct from local farmers markets and farm shops. And as sustainability is strongly at the brand’s core, all Berrymakers packaging is recyclable.
Grown across three picturesque farms located in Berkshire and Surrey, Berrymakers will specialise in selling premium punnets of strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries. Beyond the core range, jams and honey will also be available to ensure no berry is forgotten and likewise, the all-important bees who pollinate the berry fields have their chance to shine too.
Berrymakers care as much about the people who grow their fruit as the good it does for you. Known for their dedication to their growers and pickers, their people come first proven through their 70% pickers return rate. Abreast of healthy
HOME OF BRITISH BERRIES
farming practices, they have an innovative crop system, which sees strawberry crops on a tabletop system, meaning berry pickers can pick quality berries in greater volumes at a faster pace.
Berrymakers is also pioneering sustainable growing techniques which includes using water heat pumps to heat their polytunnels. This creates four times the amount of energy as electricity would to grow the berries, making it more efficient and more green. And what they grow is always the best, making healthy eating an easy and tasty option.
On a mission to inspire and encourage berry enjoyment for everyone, the Berrymakers social media channel @theberrymakers will be full of berry-licious ideas. From serving suggestions to recipe inspiration it will be sure to make your mouth water.
Good for you, good for the planet and the best in class – these really are Berries made Better, meaning Berrymakers is one delivery you’ll want to stay in for.
berrymakers.co.uk
NEW FOR SUMMER 24! TERRACE FURNITURE
EDEN FURNITURE offer a wide range of outdoor patio, terrace and poolside furniture.
For Summer 2024 we have launched a number of new ranges which are made from gas injected resin which is glass fiber reinforced for extra strength and durability.
Chairs, Armchairs, Stools and Lounge Sets in a range of colours.
In Stock for Immediate Delivery!
Wobbly tables can be a thing of the past thanks to the patented StableTable technology.
STABLETABLE is a unique patented fully automated solution which is hidden with the pillar of the table base allowing the legs to adjust to uneven surfaces.
Available for both indoor and outdoor use in a range of heights, shapes and sizes. Can be supplied as base only or complete with a stylish OnTop 12mm Compact Laminate top.
Chestnut Chair
Cedar
Chestnut Armchair
Alder Lounge Set
Sybron extends own-brand SySoft with cube tissue range
Sybron, a leading UK supplier of cleaning, hygiene and catering products to the largest names in hospitality, is introducing its own brand of cube tissue and upgrading from 3ply to 4ply at no additional cost to customers.
Until recently Sybron offered branded 3ply cube tissue but now launches two premium SySoft products, SySoft 4ply Luxury Cube Tissue and SySoft 4ply Bamboo Cube Tissue.
SySoft 4ply Luxury Cube Tissue is presented in enhanced packaging, with a black and white marble-effect design, offering a versatile solution with no need for cube box covers.
SySoft 4ply Bamboo Cube Tissue is presented in a kraft cube and appeals to Sybron’s environmentally committed customers, in particular premium hotels working towards reducing their carbon footprint. Bamboo products are recyclable, biodegradable and compostable. Bamboo is the single fastest growing plant, fully grown within three to five years. It prevents deforestation and generates 38% more oxygen and removes more carbon dioxide from the air than trees. Both products are available in cases of 36.
Sybron created the SySoft brand in 2023 with the launch of Luxury Bamboo Toilet Tissue. In 2022 Sybron introduced SyBio, its own brand range of biotech cleaning products, created in partnership with BioVate Hygienics.
“We are delighted to extend our SySoft range and bring new, improved products to our customers for the same price,” says Sybron’s sales and marketing director, George Mason.
“Sybron now fully controls the supply chain so we can ensure continuity of supply; customers can now wholly rely on Sybron to manage the complete supply chain and enjoy improved quality at the same time.
“We believe SySoft is leading the way by making 4ply tissues available to all. As a cleaning and hygiene distributor, it is Sybron’s mission to innovate and provide customers with high quality products and services they can trust.”
Sybron’s dedicated teams work with customers to offer the best products specific to their business.
AMTICO SELECTS
STAIR EDGINGS
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) manufacturer Amtico selected Gradus’s new XT Bronze stair edgings to complement the design scheme at its newly refurbished Head Office.
The Head Office, based in Coventry, welcomes clients and professionals from all aspects of the flooring industry and an attractive, hardwearing stair edging was required for the central staircase.
The manufacturer selected XT Bronze in the BKXT5A profile in Satin Bronze finish combined with Gradus’ new metal castellated slip-resistant insert in the matching Satin Bronze finish, creating an elegant, classic look to complement the tones featured within their chosen floorcoverings on the stairs and surrounding areas. In line with recommendation within Project Rainbow and ADM, the Satin Bronze castellated insert provided an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) difference of at least 30 points between the stair edging and surrounding floorcoverings to achieve a suitable contrast.
By selecting the metal castellated insert, visitors to Amtico’s Head Office will be provided with an additional layer of safety thanks to the insert’s unique design, which extends around the entire leading edge of the step, ensuring that foot contact is always made with its slip-resistant element when descending stairs.
“The key with this project was to find a balance between style and practicality, using a product that has a premium appearance while also enhancing visitor’s safety thanks to the market-leading solution for reducing the risk of slips, trips and falls on stairs.”
Chris Newey, Gradus Sales Manager, comments:
GRADUS XT BRONZE
EDGINGS FOR HEAD OFFICE
Christina Beedle, Executive Assistant, from Amtico adds:
“We required a stair edging system that could withstand people accessing and using the staircases daily, but it was also equally important that it provided a stylish finish that complemented the beautiful LVT flooring we had chosen for our Head Office.
“We’re extremely pleased with the finished outcome, not only do the Gradus XT Bronze stair edgings look great, but we also have the added reassurance that they have been manufactured by a company with over 50 years’ experience.”
Paul Cassell, Managing Director at PMC Flooring who fitted the stair edgings, said:
“Gradus were excellent to work with. They are always there if we need their support, from the start to the finish of each project. It was great to be able to use XT Bronze stair edgings with matching inserts – they were very easy to work with and install, and they looked fantastic once they were fitted.”
Designed for use in interior heavy-traffic environments such as retail, hospitality, leisure and commercial offices, XT Bronze offers the perfect stair edging solution, offering excellent levels of safety without compromise on style and looks. Reducing slips, trips and falls through a selection of Interior, Xtra-grip and Metal Castellated insert formats, XT Bronze is offered in Polished Bronze or Satin Bronze channel finishes, with matching finishes also available across complementary accessories including nap trims and welded corners.
To find out more about Gradus’s range of stair edgings and flooring accessories, please download the dedicated catalogue here
Alternatively, please contact your local Gradus representative, or call Gradus Technical Support on 01625 428922.
How green initiatives can help attract new guests and boost brand loyalty
Kevin Wright is Chief Brand Officer and business strategist at Showerkap, a pioneering tech company on a mission to change how people use water and energy. Its platform combines engineering and behavioural science in a first-ofits-kind smart technology, enabling users to reduce water waste, carbon emissions and costs.
From greywater recycling systems through to water-saving technologies, the hospitality industry is embracing a variety of initiatives to reduce water consumption and help minimise tourism’s impact on local water resources.
The urgency of these efforts becomes clear when we consider that a typical hotel room uses around 1,500 litres of water every day - approximately eight times that of local residents. This excessive usage not only carries an environmental cost, but also inflates water and energy bills, directly impacting a hotel’s bottom line. Research shows that there are potential water savings of up to 50% in many hotels.
Embracing eco practices
While technology is crucial to combatting the growing water crisis and helping hotels to cut back on costs, engaging guests in adopting eco-friendly behaviours is equally - if not more - important. One simple step is for hotels to provide clear information about sustainability initiatives, such as commonplace bathroom signs encouraging towel reuse. This showcases the hotel’s commitment to sustainability while gently nudging guests towards more eco-friendly choices.
Empowering guests with real-time information about their behaviours is another game-changer. Some hotels are introducing water consumption targets alongside in-room displays or mobile apps that track water usage, helping to make consumption visible to guests and encouraging more sustainable habits.
Creating positive experiences
Hotels and local governments are realising that engaging visitors in this way isn’t just about meeting green targets - it’s a powerful tool to create guest connections and attract ecoconscious travellers.
Copenhagen, for instance, recently launched a green initiative to reward eco behaviours such as travelling by bike or picking up litter, with perks ranging from free meals through to kayak tours and complimentary museum visits.
Hotels are also using their sustainability efforts as a way to create positive experiences for guests, including green loyalty programmes that provide points or discounts on hotel services for sustainable choices, and late check-out for guests who have hit water targets or declined a change of linen and towels during their stay. Exclusive experiences such as special access to local attractions can also be an incentive.
Valuing every last drop
‘Day Zero’ - the day the taps run dry - is already here for many tourist destinations. In recent months tourist destinations including Sicily, Greece and Andalucia have hit the headlines due to significant water shortages.
The approach of combining innovative technology with strategies that nudge guests towards more sustainable behaviours, is an important step towards solving the growing water crisis. Done right, these strategies can also become an integral part of the guest experience, creating strong emotional connections, leading to positive word of mouth and increasing the likelihood of return visits.
About Showerkap: Founded by engineer Steve Harding, Showerkap’s innovation gives organisations – including hotels – the ability to track and analyse their water usage, measure CO2, detect abnormal events like leaks and maintain water safety.
www.showerkap.co.uk
Kevin Wright - Chief Brand Officer and business strategist at Showerkap
ALTO-SHAAM LAUNCHES NEW RANGE OF HEATED DISPLAY CASES
Alto-Shaam, a global leader and innovator in the foodservice equipment industry, has launched the latest version of its heated display cases featuring multiple enhancements, including new LED lighting and top heat.
The new deli case range includes three different size models – the 48-inch (122cm) case with three pan zones, a 72-inch (183cm) case with five and the 96-inch (244cm) with seven pan zones – all featuring Alto-Shaam’s patented Halo Heat® technology now paired with ceramic top heat for extended holding times.
The dual heating provides the most even and highest quality extended holding for a variety of food items such as pastas, vegetables, and fried chicken. Unlike ‘traditional’ heating holding, temperatures created by Halo Heat technology don’t
fluctuate to extremes or dry out food. With independent top and bottom holding temperature control per pan zone, food can be displayed for longer without sacrificing quality. This helps foodservice operations increase prepared food profits and reduce food waste.
Further enhancing operating efficiency, the new display cases also feature LED lighting to provide brighter, more eye-catching displays. Mirrored sliding back doors paired a glass front and sides draw customers in from every angle –boosting impulse sales.
Waterless and easy-to-install, the countertop, stationary base, and mobile base options provide placement flexibility throughout the customer’s location.
Michael Cayo, Product and Pricing Manager at Alto-Shaam, says the new heated display range enhancements were inspired by customers’ evolving needs: “We’re continuously gathering customer feedback and using this to update our products. Our new range of heated display cases are now brighter and better than ever, with modern enhancements and heating element updates that allows operators to put their food in the spotlight!
“Our upgraded display cases extend holding times without compromising food quality, helping operators increase prepared food profits while reducing food waste.”
To learn more, visit: www.alto-shaam.com/display.
NEW SURVEY RESULTS FLAVOUR REMAINS NUMBER ONE!
New survey results from the Brewers Association, the trade association for small and independent American craft brewers, reveal that flavour is a top priority for consumers when buying beer. Trends in American craft beer often influence the market across the Atlantic, making them important for the UK hospitality industry to consider. (...cont)
Key trends include:
Everyone is Drinking Everything!
American craft beer drinkers account for 48% of total beverage alcohol drinkers (those drinking several times a year or more often) and 8% who drink on a weekly basis but craft beer consumers are also drinking across a range of other beverage alcohol categories with 50% of survey respondents imbibing in three or more categories weekly. Wine, spirits, imported beer, flavoured malt beverages, canned cocktails, hard seltzers, cider etc are all competing within the same space as craft beer and weekly consumption of these beverages has been steadily increasing since 2019. In fact, the rate of consumption has increased for all beverage alcohol types except craft beer itself and craft beer drinkers are more likely to drink spirits on a weekly basis than they are to drink craft beer!
For the first time since 2015 the number of people drinking more or less the same amount of craft beer as last year has shifted to slightly more people drinking less, albeit only by one percentage point.
Flavour
Flavour remains the most important factor for craft beer with 92% of the general population listing flavour as the primary driver in their purchasing decision, followed by ingredients and alcohol content. Despite flavour being the number one attribute, 50% of noncraft beer drinking 21-34 year olds cite; ‘I don’t like the flavour’ as a reason for not drinking craft beer, 13% more than 35+ consumers. What’s more, 15% said they don’t know enough about craft options, 5% less than 35+ consumers. When considering style in the purchase decision it’s interesting to see growth in both high and low alcohol content as the extremes of ABV continue to be a factor resonating most with 21-34 year olds. These drinkers are 8% more likely to prefer higher and 7% more likely to prefer lower alcohol content beverages than 35+ drinkers.
Diving into this age group in more detail, 28% of 21-34 year old males who drink alcohol several times a year or more but not craft beer that often, said they prefer lower alcohol content
beverages as well as just under 20% of men saying they are opting for a healthier lifestyle.
“Crisp” is the universally liked flavour among 48% of respondents. Notably, among women aged 21-34, while 54% express a preference for crisp flavours, 56% are more interested in juicy/hazy flavours, often associated with the juicy/hazy IPA, known for its subdued bitterness, velvety mouthfeel, and approachable experience. In general, women show more interest in crisp, fruity, hoppy, and juicy/hazy flavours compared to overall respondents. Both men and women demonstrate less interest in malty, spicy, and tart flavours.
Summary
American consumers are drinking less craft beer and there is more competition but notably, the latest cohort of legal drinking age consumers is increasingly concerned about alcohol intake and their health. Flavour is the main attribute of craft beer’s success but it faces competition from other beverage alcohols vying for market share and extremes of both high and low ABV are proving popular.
Discover American Craft Beer
The Brewers Association will be showcasing a range of style diverse, high quality, innovative American craft beers at London Craft Beer Festival, Tobacco Dock, 9-10 August. Some 19 American craft breweries will be pouring approximately 60 different beers ranging from alcohol-free to big and experimental beers, many of which are unavailable in the UK. Trade tickets are available free of charge on Friday 9th August.
In the UK, American craft beer is available from selected wholesalers and on-line retailers such as Athletic Brewing, Sierra Nevada shop and Cave Direct
Free downloadable resources to help you enjoy and understand American craft beer are available at www.brewersassociation.org or www.craftbeer.com
*Harris Poll Survey 2024 Craft Insights Panel among nearly 2,100 legal drinking age Americans, May 2024
www.brewersassociation.org
American Brewers Association at Humo Restaurant London 2023 - © Nic Crilly-Hargrave
PocketSquare launches
London inspired cocktail summer terrace art installation
new cocktail menu & installation
PocketSquare – the east London rooftop bar with skyline terrace –has launched a summer cocktail menu inspired by innovation, botany and sustainability in London. The new menu is complemented by a collection of art installations across the alfresco terrace and bar.
Situated in Whitechapel at the heart of east London, PocketSquare has taken inspiration for its summer cocktail menu from London stories and initiatives that chime with the bar’s focus on innovation, botanicals, organics and sustainability. A diverse mix of influences sees cocktails inspired by everything from gardens and farms to inventors and artists.
Underlying the cocktail menu is the PocketSquare team’s drive for a more sustainable approach to cocktail making. In creating the menu head mixologist Lucrezia Frosutto and her expert team have experimented with processes and ingredients that reduce the waste and environmental impact from cocktail making. The sustainability and innovation ethos behind the menu is reflected in a series of art installations across the bar and terrace.
Cocktails feature seasonal summer fruits and vegetables including strawberries, loganberries and bell peppers; with the team seeking to use the whole of fruits wherever possible. The leftovers from creating juices are used to make fruit leather garnishes, and whole fruits are used to create oleo saccharums. Herbs such as thyme, rosemary and coriander, grown on the PocketSquare terrace, are used to make syrups and bitters.
Drinks on the menu include:
Capsicum which pays homage to the nearby Hackney City Farm where the local community can get up close with vegetables and other plants. The cocktail features rum, yellow Chartreuse, yellow bell pepper juice and a thyme and coriander syrup.
Hive is inspired by London’s bee lovers including The London Beekeeper’s Assocation and their promotion of the city’s bee colonies. This sweet gin cocktail with a kick features a strawberry and chilli shrub in a nod to the importance of bees in pollinating the plants of the British summer berry.
Bloom is inspired by the London Wildlife Trust and their use of wildflowers in bringing nature back to London. A blend of Loganberry syrup, Prosecco and vodka, the striking pink drink features a coral blue edible garnish and is served with wildflower paper; which guests can take home to plant in their gardens or balconies.
Other cocktails on the list include Duality a creamy fruit cocktail inspired by the spirit of reusing waste; and Revol a smoky drink inspired by an early innovator in the steam engine in London.
To go with your cocktails PocketSquare offers a bar snacks and tapas menu which includes dishes such as Puccia with Burrata, Rocket & Mortadella;Truffle Pecorino Chips and Cod Fritters with Sriracha aioli.
Summer terrace art installation
Across the bar and terrace guests will find an installation of art and soft furnishings from students at Norwich University Of The Arts. Inspired by the relationship between PocketSquare and the surrounding skyline the pieces mix the urban with the natural, exploring the architectural elements of the environment and softening them with natural, experimental form.
The works make use of recycled and repurposed fabrics, keying into notions of sustainable living.
Works include:
• Textile artist Annie Gough’s “Glamouflage” throws sourced from deadstock fabrics
• “Ethereal Pleat” a lit ceiling installation by textile artist Freya Monks, made from exclusively found fabrics
• “Soulsearching” a collection of paintings and cushion covers by fashion maker and fine art painter Olly O’Neill
• A collection of cushions made from recycled materials by print maker Joanna Cockrell
Art and supporting up-and-coming artists have been at the heart of PocketSquare since the bar’s launch in 2021.The team at PocketSquare have worked with a range of artists and creators on specially commissioned works for the venue including street artist Jay Kaes and fabric designer Ellen Russell. The bar has also hosted a series of Curated at Hyatt Place exhibitions with photographers Ben Broomfield and David Stetson; street artist Sam Kerridge and renowned cartoonist Bill Tidy.
The summer terrace is now open at PocketSquare, along with the new summer cocktail menu. For bookings and more information visit pocketsquare.london | @pocketsquarelondon
Further information on the artists at PocketSquare is available on request.
“Zero-to-Launch”
ELMNTL Makes It Simple Hospitality Retreat With Saunas, and
Colorado-based design and fabrication team, ELMNTL, is democratizing boutique hospitality with its ecosystem of configurable cabins, saunas and wellness products. ELMNTL acts as a partner to hospitality owners to start getaways, hotels, vacation rentals, and wellness retreats with its zero-tolaunch services.
ELMNTL was founded by former data scientist and tech entrepreneur Vlad Dubovskiy who traded coding for building and renting cabins out in the wild of the rugged Colorado
“ELMNTL crafts beyond architecture — we create unforgettable experiences for people who love to adventure outside. Instead of seeing a cabin as simply a product, we are vertically integrating our hardware (the building) and the software (the experience), akin to an iPhone. So we think of our core product as delivering an unforgettable user experience.” — Vlad Dubovskiy, Founder and CEO
Configurable Architecture, without a Bespoke Pricetag
Through configurable and fully prefabricated modular builds, ELMNTL helps its clients create a unique experience in their spaces. With over 1000 configurable options customers can control their designs with greater flexibility than ever.
Customers can create a unique master plan and floor plans suited to their specific needs with ELMNTL’s configurable architecture. ELMNTL innovated a build system to adapt and personalize every structure, ensuring that it fits functional requirements and harmonizes with the surrounding environment. The points of configurability include: the way modules are joined, the placement of windows, doors, skylights, the choice of exterior siding material and interior color theme, and the addition of elements like roof-decks, gear capsules and fireplaces.
Rocky Mountains. This personal transformation informs much about ELMNTL as a business.
Simple for Anyone to Start a Their Modular Cabins, “Zero-to-Launch” Services
“ELMNTL’s platform for the hospitality market aims to make elevated architecture accessible for all. We address the missing middle in the market: a move away from rigid, preset designs and towards customizable floor plans. We offer products with a personal look-and-feel in a modular format, without tipping into expensive, bespoke architecture.” — Vlad Dubovskiy
Guiding customers from the initial feasibility of their hospitality concepts to the full realization of their business, ELMNTL provides turnkey support that transforms ideas into successful ventures. Their refreshing approach cuts through the red tape and exclusivity that’s often associated with highend architecture.
ELMNTL also offers preset floor plans in addition to its configurable options. Presets provide customers with a quick and convenient hospitality solution and come at a lower price point.
From the choice of materials to the orientation of the structure for passive solar gains, every element is thoughtfully selected and executed based on a customer’s project. This personalized approach guarantees that each ELMNTL cabin or sauna is a true reflection of the customer’s vision and lifestyle. With these configurable features packaged in a pre-finished modular design, ELMNTL ensures
that elevated architecture is within reach for hospitality startups and established hoteliers at once.
Democratizing Design with Turnkey Services
The ELMNTL team does everything from start to finish to deliver an amazing user experience. By focusing on the real needs of hospitality business owners, ELMNTL aims to democratize architecture and luxury craftsmanship. Their approach of having both design and manufacturing in-house, strengthens their ability to take on a high level of configurablity for cabins and saunas.
ELMNTL removes obstacles and complexity from the process with its Turnkey Services. They manage master planning, site planning, zoning, permitting, local code-compliance, construction, delivery, installation, and warranty for their customers. Especially busy customers can opt for additional services such as hiring ELMNTL to manage a local General Contractor (GC) on their behalf to carry out site work. The Turnkey Services are available nationwide in the US and Canada and are included in the quoted base price. These end-to-end services allow customers to focus on building their businesses, while ELMNTL handles all the infrastructure.
Rooted in Colorado Adventure
ELMNTL’s designs are deeply influenced by the rugged beauty and environmental ethos of Colorado. The focused team of designers and craftspeople brings their expertise and love for nature to every project.
“Real people designing real experiences and spaces for the love of nature. We treat every carpentry detail as poetry we want people to witness. Our products are intimate – the finer details make every choice feel considered. To us, a cabin or sauna is an extension of nature itself, so we build it with the spirit of adventure, fun, and obsessive care for the environment.” — Vlad Dubovskiy
With the goal of creating impactful experiences in nature, ELMNTL is focused on designing structures that enhance the surrounding landscape of their customers’ sites. In true Coloradoan fashion, the team places adventure, nature bathing and play in the wild at the foundation of their design and build intentions. ELMNTL stands out in the modular prefab market by offering a fresh perspective on modern shelters. They pride themselves on tailoring builds to the topographical features of the American landscape, an environment known for its diversity.
Innovation to Build for Forever
To ELMNTL, “Built for Forever” means building architecture that stands the test of time and using materials that are forever safe for the planet. Built for extreme weather conditions and protected for longevity, ELMNTL structures are also designed for disassembly. All of the products are
made with biodegradable or re-purposable materials, including decarbonizing wood frames, and are free from toxic foams and plastics.
As ELMNTL grows, it will continue to add new designs to its ecosystem of products and experiences, including wellness products such as cold plunges and hot tubs. Committed to advancing configurable architecture in modular builds, ELMNTL is not merely adapting to future trends in living spaces; it is actively shaping a new era of hospitality.
“Our big idea is simple — it is to foster a love for the fragile, wild, natural world. To do that, we work with our hospitality clients to get as many people as possible into the elements.” — Vlad Dubovskiy.
www.elmntl.io
THE IMPACT OF FURNITURE ON A HOSPITALITY ENVIRONMENT
Furniture plays a key role in any hospitality business, so selecting the right furniture can be a challenge. You need to consider your clientele, what they will be expecting from the space, the size of the area and the colours and finishes you think will draw people in and make them feel welcome. Jason Brown, Director of Design & Development at Knightsbridge Furniture, highlights the impact the furniture choices you make can have on a hospitality environment.
First impressions are so important, when you first walk into an establishment, you can tell a lot just by scanning around the room. Take the lobby or reception areas for example, they’re the first room a visitor will see and they need to set the tone for the rest of the building. Client research will massively impact this, if you’re based in a busy city and a lot of people visit on business, they will probably be expecting something sleek, sophisticated and bright with lots of work stations, close access to plug sockets for charging devices and comfortable seating if they have to wait for long periods of time.
On the other hand, if you often get families and large groups visiting – you might consider something more family friendly with lots of soft furnishings and comfortable sofas, but nothing to encourage long periods of time spent in the lobby when it gets busy. Creating an environment that meets your customers’ expectations is key to them staying loyal to your brand.
Combining comfort and practicality can be a difficult balance, furniture pieces need to be easy to clean and manoeuvre if needed, but still comfortable and inviting. Vinyl fabrics are easiest to wipe down and clean quickly, whereas soft fabrics may require more in depth cleaning techniques. There’s no right material to use, it completely depends on your environment. Finding a balance between the two can be made simple by getting in touch with a contract furniture manufacturer.
When it comes to colour schemes, you can play it safe by sticking to neutral, earthy colours to create a calming environment. Alternatively, you can select colours such as red, yellows and blues to create a vibrant and exciting atmosphere. The colours you pick should align with your brand for consistency, while meeting expectations.
Knightsbridge Furniture is a contract furniture company that offers a range of commercial services for hospitality business. We have decades of experience crafting bespoke furniture pieces that are luxury, adaptable and versatile so you can create the perfect lounge space, waiting room, bedroom, dining room and/or foyer.
As you have read, there are many reasons why you should carefully consider the furniture you purchase for your hospitality business. Understand your customer and what they expect from you, consider the colours you use, the comfortability and the practicality of the furniture you select
and whether the style of furniture you want really aligns with the feel of your brand. Working alongside a contract furniture company can take the stress out of selecting the right furniture for your space.
For further information please click here
LEICESTERSHIRE COMPANY
PRESTIGIOUS COLLABORATION ORIENTAL, DOHA HOTEL &
Crystal Auras, an internationally renowned ethical crystal retailer in Leicester, has proudly announced a prestigious collaboration with distinguished hotel and spa, Mandarin Oriental, Doha
Based on Narborough Business Park in Leicestershire, Crystal Auras was initially launched in 2020 at entrepreneur, Nyree Brough’s kitchen table, after she spent two years prior researching the crystal market and prospective suppliers.
The integration of crystals into the world of hospitality is being embraced by some of the world’s most respected brands as they use crystals to shape the modern guest experience. Now, with the exiting new collaboration with Forbes Five Star awarded hotel and spa, Mandarin Oriental, Doha, Crystal Auras is being singled out as one of the sector’s leading voices.
The luxury hotel, renowned as the go-to destination for international high-flying travellers, successful entrepreneurs and famous faces to unwind and rebalance, has chosen to collaborate with Crystal Auras on its new Crystal & Sound Ritual treatment, as part of the spa’s range of specialised, luxurious treatment offerings.
Cassandra Forrest, the Senior Director of Spa & Wellness at Mandarin Oriental, Doha says: “The treatment has been exceptionally well-received, with numerous wellness guests praising it as one of the most enjoyable experiences they have ever had.”
In-keeping with its Oriental heritage and incorporating elements of feng shui, the spa is also planning to place crystals throughout the spa spaces in collaboration with Crystal Auras, aiming to enhance the energies and promote abundance on all levels.
Nyree Brough, Founder of Crystal Auras, comments: “We are incredibly honoured and proud to be working with the team at the Mandarin Oriental, Doha. We both believe in the power of crystal healing, energies and spirituality, and by working with the crystalline energies, you can enhance your life through healing vibrations.”
Nyree continues; “We’re seeing a transition across all areas, including the luxury market, towards holistic, spiritual wellness, and an immersive experience that is felt energetically. People are moving away from processed and transactional environments, to focus on rejuvenating the mind, body and soul, as is evident in our exciting new partnership at Mandarin Oriental.”
For more information on Crystal Auras, please visit: crystalauras.com/
To find out about the Crystal & Sound Ritual at the Mandarin Oriental, Doha, please click here.
Crystal Auras Founder, Nyree Brough
COLLABORATION WITH MANDARIN & SPA
Beauty, we appreciate, is in the eye of the beholder.
Craftsmanship, we sense, is in the hand of the maker.
British pedigree in every detail – even to the choice of colour nish and trim. The fusion of style, technology &
Perfection, we experience, is in the Fracino bespoke studio.