Rottet Studio Reimagines Colombe d’Or Hotel Complex in Houston

Hilton Hotels & Resorts, the flagship brand of Hilton's 22 brands with over 600 hotels across six continents, is continuously innovating to meet the evolving needs of travelers. This involves significant investments from Hilton Owners in refreshing and renovating properties with inspiring designs and innovative amenities. The brand's commitment to delivering exceptional stays is evident in recent global renovations that showcase captivating decor, award-winning dining experiences, and state-of-the-art meeting and event spaces. One such example is the Hilton Columbus Downtown in Ohio, which underwent a $265 million expansion completed in late 2022. This expansion added a new tower, making it the only hotel in Ohio with 1,000 guest rooms and over 75,000 square feet of meeting space. The new tower features a soothing color palette and a circular lobby that connects to public spaces and the Greater Columbus Convention Center. Guests can access enhanced accommodations, some with floor-to-ceiling windows offering city views, and enjoy five distinct food and beverage concepts, including Spark, FYR, and the rooftop bar Stories on High, all within walking distance of the Short North Arts and Arena Districts. TheWit Chicago, a Hilton Hotel, has also seen significant upgrades with newly appointed guest rooms and suites, a refreshed lobby, and enhanced amenities. The hotel’s design emphasizes creativity and art, featuring bright interiors with muted tones that highlight artwork, sculptures, and architectural light fixtures. Located in Chicago’s downtown Loop, it offers 310 guest rooms, a full-service spa, extensive meeting spaces, and dining options like the State and Lake restaurant and ROOF on theWit, a premier rooftop destination with panoramic city views and a retractable roof for year-round access. In London, the Hilton London Metropole, the largest Hilton hotel outside the U.S., completed a multi-million-pound renovation inspired by London's rich cityscape. This transformation enhanced its 1,100 guest rooms and 35 event spaces, including ballrooms and a hybrid meeting facility, along with a state-of-the-art fitness studio. The hotel introduced four new dining options: Tyburn Kitchen for sustainable, locally sourced dishes, Tyburn Market for grab-and-go meals, Tyburn Kitchen Bar for a casual family atmosphere, and Bow Bar, which offers an eclectic East London vibe with live DJs and signature cocktails. The Hilton Richmond Downtown in Virginia, housed in a historic former department store, underwent a multi-million-dollar renovation that preserved its unique character while modernizing its facilities. Additions include a new lobby bar and lounge, Gather & Hem, and a 1,400-square-foot hybrid meeting space, Ensemble, designed for collaboration. The hotel also features an authentic Italian restaurant, La Grotta, and the 1885 Café & Market, alongside an upgraded fitness center and an enhanced indoor pool area. Guest rooms and suites offer high ceilings, oversized windows, and renovated bathrooms with contemporary fixtures. The Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina in Florida is undergoing phased renovations that began in 2020. Guest rooms were initially transformed with a navy blue, white, and natural wood palette, which extends into the rejuvenated lobby. The hotel's lagoon-style pool and pool deck provide a serene oasis next to its 33-slip marina. A new two-story waterfront expansion has increased the event space to over 30,000 square feet, including the 4,875-square-foot Intracoastal Ballroom with water views. This expansion also includes Olive & Sea, an upscale rooftop restaurant, complementing existing dining options like poolside dining and Dockside Provisions. In Indonesia, the Hilton Bali Resort's newly renovated lobby offers an elevated arrival experience with new furnishings, lighting, and decorative elements. Completed in May 2023, the design incorporates local materials, colors, and textures to create a contemporary Balinese aesthetic that reflects the island’s beauty and supports the local community. Situated along Sawangan Beach, the resort features multiple pools, a sand lagoon, a waterslide, oceanfront event spaces, four dining options, and eight semi-open villa spas. The Hilton Los Angeles Culver City in California completed a $35-million renovation, transforming it into a modern and refined space for both work and leisure. All 375 guest rooms and bathrooms received updates, including new furnishings, lighting, and décor. The property’s 25,000 square feet of meeting space now boasts state-of-the-art technology. The overhaul also included the exterior façade, landscaping, public spaces, swimming pool, and fitness center, with the addition of Peloton bikes and "5 Feet to Fitness with Fitness Zones Rooms." The hotel introduced West & Co., a new destination for craft cocktails and coastal fare, featuring a restaurant, bar, and grab-and-go market. Finally, the Hilton Vienna Danube Waterfront in Austria is completing a phased renovation by the end of 2023, encompassing guest rooms, conference facilities, the executive lounge, terrace, wellness area, restaurant, and bar. Drawing inspiration from the building's history and Viennese charm, the redesign by THDP features a fresh blue waterfront design in guest rooms, with premium rooms and suites offering a modern rustic industrial aesthetic and new dining bar and terrace options for a relaxed social atmosphere. These renovations across multiple global locations highlight Hilton Hotels & Resorts' continuous effort to enhance guest experiences through thoughtful design, innovative amenities, and localized influences. #HotelRenovations #HiltonHotels #HotelDesign #HospitalityInnovation #LuxuryTravel #InteriorDesign #GuestExperience #DiningExperiences #MeetingSpaces

The ice rink at Rockefeller Center, a landmark in New York City for nearly a century, underwent a significant renovation of its subterranean public areas. Previously, the best views of the skaters were reserved for patrons of two upscale restaurants on the lower level, a situation Tishman Speyer, the owner of the rink and surrounding buildings, aimed to change. In 2019, Tishman Speyer initiated an invitational competition to re-envision the 50,000-square-foot public concourse. INC Architecture & Design, led by founding partners Adam Rolston and Drew Stuart, won the competition with a proposal focused on democratizing the rink experience and enhancing the concourse's circulation and design, drawing inspiration from the site's Art Deco history. The project was part of a broader rebranding effort for Rockefeller Center, intended to appeal to office workers, tourists, and locals, transforming the lower-level concourse into a vibrant civic space and a key hub for the busy 47th–50th Streets–Rockefeller Center subway station. Rolston and Stuart, both with personal connections to Rockefeller Center, recognized the need to revitalize the once 'dreary, mazelike' corridors characterized by beige limestone walls and low ceilings that lacked natural light. Their winning approach stemmed from a deep dive into the center's aesthetic history, original 1930s interiors, and details, expressing a profound attachment to the location. EB Kelly, Tishman senior managing director, noted that INC's work successfully enhances the perception of Rockefeller Center as an extraordinary place in New York. The firm's master plan introduced a windowed corridor around the rink, multiple pathways to the subway, and space for five restaurants. The design drew inspiration from the site's little-known history as the Elgin Botanic Garden, the city's first, which featured a looping, U-shaped plan. This historical reference informed INC’s flowing layout, characterized by curved walls and perimeter lighting guiding visitors through the concourse, thereby improving circulation that previously funneled through the middle. The design team also observed a fascinating contrast in Rockefeller Center’s existing architecture: while the exteriors were linear and vertical, many interiors were curved, sensuous, and feminine. This led to an architectural approach focused on 'flow,' heavily influenced by the radial light coves and proscenium arches of Radio City Music Hall, which mimic a sunrise. INC incorporated a half-mile of GFRG coves underground, unfurling like a ribbon to provide wayfinding and brighten corridors. Custom bronze pendant fixtures, reminiscent of the site’s original tiered fixtures by Edward F. Caldwell & Co., were also installed. The renovation also involved exposing the ceiling, raising heights from under 10 feet to up to 16 feet in some areas, revealing crisscrossing beams and five glass-block skylights. These skylights, installed among planters in Rockefeller Plaza with fountains above, allow dappled sunlight to filter through water to the floor below, creating a unique lighting effect. This rugged infrastructure contrasts with the polished interior finishes. Materially, the concourse’s design took cues from the glamorous Art Deco lobby of 30 Rockefeller Plaza. Charcoal terrazzo flooring with inlaid bronze patterns, a nod to the 1930s origins of Rock Center, was combined with tambour paneling of bronze or precast stone. Bronze storefronts frame four of the restaurants, while the fifth, 5 Acres, designed by INC and positioned in the center, features only a bronze rail to demarcate its space. This wall-less anchor restaurant was central to the proposal, embodying the concourse’s new open and hospitality-driven identity. A particular challenge for 5 Acres, a 100-seat farm-to-table eatery under 30 Rock with a private dining room, was concealing eight giant concrete columns. INC’s solution was to wrap each column in frosted ribbed glass, internally lit to reveal the structure's shadow, creating 'ghost columns' that contribute to the renovation's theatrical quality. The interior was furnished with mid-century pieces such as Cesca armchairs and a vintage Florence Knoll credenza, evoking the period when the offices above were first established. The renovation aims for diners to feel connected to the pulse of New York, even without direct views of the skaters. #RockefellerCenter #INCArchitectureAndDesign #RenovationProject #ArtDeco #PublicSpaceDesign #UrbanRenewal #InteriorDesign #CommercialArchitecture

The Clifton, a historic inn in Charlottesville, Virginia, originally built in 1799, has undergone a significant interior revamp by Blackberry Farm Design. The 100-acre estate, once owned by Thomas Jefferson's son-in-law, Thomas Mann Randolph Jr., has operated as an inn since the mid-1980s. A recent change of ownership prompted a cosmetic refresh to introduce a more contemporary aesthetic while respecting the building's historical integrity. Blackberry Farm Design approached the renovation by keeping the structural elements of the inn intact, focusing instead on updating the 20 guest rooms and main living spaces. The previous neutral color scheme with traditional furnishings served as a "clean slate" for the Tennessee-based design firm. The renovation introduced new wallpaper, paint, artwork, and modern light fixtures and furnishings throughout the property. In the common areas, a balance between modern and traditional elements was key. The foyer features Phillip Jeffries’ tranquil blue Fade Sea Spray wallpaper, subtly referencing the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains visible from the property. The former check-in area was transformed into a sophisticated lounge, complete with a round "sociable sofa" upholstered in Kravet Verbier Diamond fabric in Leaf/Teal and banquettes in Lee Jofa’s Saranac Cord fabric in gold. The bar and an adjacent lounge area saw the most hands-on transformation, with the front desk removed and the bar elongated. A new bar-back, constructed from wood shelving supported by copper piping, enhances the space. The Library, now serving as a dining room, received a bold color scheme with walls and paneling painted in Farrow & Ball’s Stiffkey Blue, complemented by a lighter shade on the ceiling and a sleek Dallas Chandelier from Arteriors. Built-in bookcases and a long banquette, upholstered in Kravet’s Versailles Velvet fabric, were also installed. The veranda, a popular dining spot overlooking the back lawn, was brightened with soft green paint on the coffered-bead board ceilings and wrought iron chairs, along with new light fixtures. On the second floor, the six bedrooms were refreshed with new paint, light fixtures, and furnishings. Certain original pieces, such as rustic pine demitasse tables in the foyer, an armoire, and bedside tables in guest suites, were retained to maintain the inn's historical character, paired with modern additions to create an "unpredictable look" combining comfort, tradition, and contemporary style. Beyond the main inn, the original carriage house was converted into a bridal suite with three guest rooms, featuring large windows and vaulted ceilings for a bright atmosphere. Randolph’s former law office, now a garden cottage, also offers two updated bedrooms with crisp white paint, new linens, and light fixtures. The old livery, situated by the 20-acre Arabella Lake, was transformed into three guest suites with private patios, complete with cozy living areas and king-size beds upholstered in rich turquoise velvet. An infinity pool and cabanas provide a quiet retreat for guests. The renovation successfully blends the property's rich history with modern luxury, creating a unique guest experience. #HotelRemodel #HistoricRenovation #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHospitality #Charlottesville #VirginiaTravel #BlackberryFarmDesign #BoutiqueHotel #SouthernCharm

The article explores the growing trend of luxury hotels prioritizing bathroom design to maintain competitiveness and enhance guest experience. As existing high-end hotels undergo renovations and new establishments are constructed, a significant emphasis is placed on creating distinctive and opulent bathroom spaces. The piece highlights four diverse hotel properties that exemplify this trend, each showcasing unique design elements and amenities. The Ritz-Carlton in Cleveland, Ohio, recently underwent an 18-month transformation, revamping all 206 rooms, suites, and public areas. Inspired by the natural beauty of Lake Erie, the new design incorporates a soft color palette of blues, taupes, and grays, with subtle shiny finishes referencing the city's steel-making heritage. Local and regional artwork is a prominent feature. The bathrooms predominantly feature gray and white marble, accented with black marble above the tubs. A notable amenity is the fogless backlit shaving mirror within the shower. Asprey products, including combs, shaving kits, and toothbrush kits, complete the luxury experience in the suites. In San Diego, California, the Kimpton Solamar, a boutique hotel in the East Village, has been remodeled with inspiration drawn from Balboa Park and historic Mission architecture. The bathrooms are designed with a striking black and white aesthetic. "Encaustic" wallpaper, created by mixing pigments with hot wax and burning them in as an inlay, gives the illusion of tile on the walls. A surfboard-shaped vanity mirror illuminates this unique wall covering and reflects a tiered sconce. The vanity itself features a gauged wood face and a heavy stone countertop, adding textural depth. Luxury Atelier Bloom amenities are provided, along with Frette robes. The hotel also offers a "Forgot It, We Got It" service, providing guests with commonly forgotten items. The Zungulila Bushcamp in Zambia, operated by The Bushcamp Company within South Luangwa National Park, has also seen recent refurbishment. This remote national park is known for its diverse habitats and abundant wildlife. The newly updated Zungulila Bushcamp features four spacious tents, each with private bamboo verandas. These tents include en suite bathrooms with hot-and-cold running water and outdoor showers. A new addition to these bathrooms is freestanding copper baths, handmade in India and zinc-coated. Guests can enjoy views of the Kapamba River and a nearby plain, frequented by elephants, lions, and buffalo, from the comfort of their bathtubs. Finally, the AKA Times Square hotel residences in New York City, situated in a landmark Romanesque Revival building, cater to extended stays with contemporary studios and suites. These accommodations boast wood floors, modern artwork, high-end kitchen appliances, Egyptian linens, free WiFi, and in-unit washer/dryers. The penthouse collection, recently redesigned, includes master bathrooms that are nearly the size of a standard New York City hotel room, spanning 200 square feet. These spa-like bathrooms feature a sculptural, modern freestanding bathtub, an oversized dual rain head shower behind a free-floating glass wall, a vanity for two, and Bulgari amenities. #LuxuryHotels #BathroomDesign #HotelRenovation #InteriorDesign #TravelAccommodations #SpaExperience #BoutiqueHotels #RitzCarlton #KimptonSolamar

Designer Laura Hodges transformed a 2,000-square-foot industrial loft in Baltimore's Fells Point neighborhood into a serene, light-filled home. The original space featured raw concrete floors and exposed HVAC piping under 18-foot ceilings, elements Hodges systematically replaced or reconfigured. Hodges, a New York School of Interior Design alumna who previously worked for Jamie Drake and Thomas Jayne, established her firm in Maryland in 2016 and later opened her home boutique, Domain by Laura Hodges Studio. The renovation began with a complete overhaul of the existing floor plan and infrastructure. The concrete floors were covered with wide-plank oak, and a clunky builder-grade stair was replaced with a minimalist white-painted metal version with oak treads and handrails. A glass-framed mezzanine was added above the stairwell, contributing to the refined aesthetic. Hodges emphasized the role of artwork in the design, with the walls serving as a neutral canvas. The open-plan living areas were painted in various finishes of Benjamin Moore’s Super White, and all custom design details were constructed on site. The living room, designed for media and entertaining, includes twin sofas, a Bernhardt armchair, and vintage chairs upholstered in chocolate brown Edelman Leather. A custom niche with grass cloth backing and integrated lighting houses a large bookcase, accessed by a custom white oak rolling ladder on a steel track. The kitchen underwent a complete renovation, replacing a turquoise-painted space. Hodges concealed an existing column within a paneled box and installed new floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, including specialized storage for a coffee bar and a movable spice rack. The kitchen now features Imperial Danby marble counters and backsplash, Fisher & Paykel appliances, and Visual Comfort pendants. BB LaMartina's artwork adorns the space. Hodges ingeniously created a secondary space by inserting a wall into the living room, forming a den that functions as a guest room for the homeowners' daughters. This space incorporates a sliding door and blackout curtains for privacy, alongside bronze transom windows that subtly reference the loft's industrial heritage. A wall-mounted desk, sleeper sofa, closet, and an additional bathroom were integrated into this versatile area. The dining area is distinguished by double-height windows equipped with motorized sheer curtains and blackout shades. Hodges custom-designed the dining table, featuring a starburst-patterned cerused white oak top and ebony legs, in collaboration with Goodwood Studios. Oly dining chairs complete the setting. Throughout the renovation, Hodges prioritized maximizing natural light and views of downtown Baltimore. The transformation successfully converted a formerly stark industrial environment into a peaceful and elegant residence, reflecting a blend of modern aesthetics with functional design and a nod to the building's history. The homeowners expressed satisfaction with the outcome, highlighting the ample light and scenic views achieved through the design. This project exemplifies Hodges's ability to create sophisticated, livable spaces from challenging industrial settings. #InteriorDesign #LoftConversion #IndustrialToResidential #BaltimoreRealEstate #LauraHodgesStudio #ModernDesign #HomeRenovation #OpenPlanLiving

The article details the transformation of a co-op lobby in the St. George Tower in Brooklyn Heights, a building with a rich history as part of the grand St. George Hotel. For decades after its conversion to co-ops in 1984, the lobby, which was originally the hotel's service entrance at 111 Hicks Street, remained uninspired, characterized by sponge-painted beige walls and a generally drab appearance. The renovation project, undertaken by Katz Architecture, aimed to revitalize this space, drawing inspiration from the building's original Art Deco heritage. Before the renovation, the lobby was divided into three distinct levels: an entrance area with a concierge desk, a lower service zone, and an upper mailroom and elevator bank accessible via stairs. The existing design was worn and poorly lit, featuring quarry tile flooring that contributed to its unappealing aesthetic. Katz Architecture envisioned a space that would evoke the opulence and playfulness of the hotel's original Egyptian Art Deco interiors, making it both dramatic and inviting. The renovation involved several key changes to achieve this vision. The design team selected 'shimmery' materials and dark wood finishes to introduce visual contrast and drama. A significant structural alteration included raising the ceiling, which enhanced the sense of spaciousness within the lobby. The concierge desk was also relocated to improve the flow and functionality of the room. The outdated quarry tile floor was replaced with elegant terrazzo, and an aluminum-leaf and black plaster wall was installed to cleverly conceal the ramp leading to the lower service area. David Katz, Principal of Katz Architecture, emphasized the incorporation of craftsmanship in the details, citing elements such as hand-applied aluminum leaf panels and custom-designed railings. The new concierge desk, crafted from dark wood and white marble, features a faceted wall behind it that hides the service area ramp. The geometric patterns in the light fixtures and metal railings were intentionally chosen to reflect an Art Deco aesthetic without appearing anachronistic or 'kitschy.' A subtle yet significant detail highlighted by Katz was the use of nickel silver in the reveals and corners of the fumed oak and black Venetian plaster panels, adding a touch of 1930s 'pizazz.' The entire renovation process spanned approximately nine months and incurred a cost of $1 million. The upper mailroom and elevator area were also updated, featuring a softer ambiance with a gray carpet and light curtains. Katz Architecture specializes in residential design and consulting, particularly assisting co-op and condo boards with renovation projects. The project successfully transformed a previously neglected and uninviting service entrance into a sophisticated and glamorous lobby that honors the building's historical grandeur. #BrooklynHeights #CoopLobbyRenovation #KatzArchitecture #ArtDecoDesign #StGeorgeTower #InteriorTransformation #LuxuryRenovation #HistoricBuilding #BrooklynRealEstate

Native, an experiential hostel in Austin, Texas, is situated within a renovated 1890s railroader hotel and an adjacent midcentury warehouse. This establishment offers a distinctive blend of boutique hotel design, amenities, and service, combined with the social and communal atmosphere typically found in hostels. The project's vision and execution were a collaborative effort involving Icon Design Build, un.box studio (designer of record), Joel Mozersky Design (interior designer), and Helms Workshop (creative branding). The design philosophy behind Native emphasizes a moody, rough-hewn aesthetic, characterized by playful juxtapositions such as charred rafters alongside silky Venetian plaster walls, and warm velour integrated with black steel. Antonio Madrid, a partner at both Native and Icon Design Build, explains that the design pays homage to the building's historical use as a railroader hotel, incorporating tramp art-inspired woodworking fabricated on-site. The intention was to restore the 'faded elegance of a forgotten gem' while simultaneously envisioning Austin's future, creating a space envisioned as an incubator for thinkers, makers, and creatives. Native's lodging options include 12 suites, each featuring 65 custom-built bunks. These bunks are equipped with privacy curtains, individual lamps, and power outlets. Additionally, the hostel offers a communal 'Romper Room' with eight single handcrafted bunks, a California king-sized bed, sofas, three full bathrooms, and 1,000 square feet of shared space, designed for larger groups or 'rock star nights.' Beyond accommodations, Native functions as a multifaceted venue. It houses a cafe and parlor lounge that serves as a co-working space for both guests and local residents during the day. Further enhancing its offerings, Native includes a bar and kitchen that provides craft cocktails and cuisine overseen by executive chef Virginia Pharr. A 3,500-square-foot multipurpose event space is also available. The concept aims to make quality design accessible while maintaining a lively atmosphere appealing to a younger demographic. Other communal features include a 'Loft Room' with privacy-equipped bunk beds, a 'Common Area' exclusively for guests, and a cozy built-in lounge within this common area. Guests also have access to a full, residential-style kitchen. The bar and kitchen serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, catering to both hotel guests and local patrons. The property hosts daily on-site events and activities, such as DJ sets, live music performances, curated film screenings, and city excursions, fostering a vibrant community environment. Antonio Madrid highlights the natural light as a favorite aspect of the property, noting how it transforms the ambiance of each room from day to night. This integration of historic preservation, modern design, and community-focused amenities positions Native as a unique lodging and social hub in downtown Austin. #ExperientialHostel #AustinTravel #HistoricPreservation #BoutiqueDesign #CommunitySpace #AdaptiveReuse #InteriorDesign #HospitalityInnovation #TexasLodging

The article details the transformation of Gold Diggers, a historic East Hollywood establishment, into a modern boutique hotel, bar, and recording studio complex. Originally built in 1924 as an "Inn Above a Tavern" on Santa Monica Boulevard, the property boasts a rich and varied past, including serving as director Ed Wood’s soundstage in the 1950s for films like 'Plan 9 from Outer Space,' and later as a rehearsal space for numerous bands, notably an early lineup of Guns N’ Roses. Inspired by this storied history, owner Dave Neupert envisioned a hybrid hotel and music campus, aiming to preserve and highlight the building's musical legacy in a city that often overlooks its past. The renovation project, completed in 2018, was led by architect David Wick of Wick Architecture & Design and Tiffany Howell of Night Palm Studio, with a primary focus on incorporating music as the central design theme. The boutique hotel component features 11 rooms, each designed to feel like an apartment with reading nooks and hangout spots. The interior design blends jewel-toned furnishings with vintage pieces and rock-and-roll memorabilia. Mattresses are sourced from 2920 Sleep, and linens are from Parachute. Large-scale artwork adorns the walls, including paintings by Parquet Courts singer Andrew Savage. Bathrooms showcase a mix of chevron wall tile, traditional sinks, and luxurious black stone floors. Unique decor elements, such as a 'babe' sign, add an idiosyncratic touch. A distinctive feature for guests is a vinyl compilation, a collaboration between Aquarium Drunkard and Vinyl Me, Please, which is left on turned-down beds and changes seasonally. Wall murals, like one painted by Kristi Head, further enhance the artistic ambiance. The bar, open daily, adopts a vintage Los Angeles aesthetic, characterized by brass details, dark wood chevron walls, and tufted leather seating. A stage, lined with gold velvet curtains, hosts a DJ or live music nightly, with selections curated by Justin Gage of Aquarium Drunkard. Gilt chandeliers and textured walls complete the bar's sophisticated and eclectic design. The recording complex, named Gold Diggers Sound, is a partnership with Kingsize Soundlabs and offers nine state-of-the-art recording studios, a multi-use sound stage, kitchenettes, and lounge areas, all available for 24/7 access. The revamped sound stage, situated in Ed Wood’s former space, is also suitable for private events, screenings, live broadcasts, and AV production. Room rates at Gold Diggers begin at just under $200. The project credits Wick Architecture & Design for architecture, Night Palm for interior design, and Pablo Enriquez for photography. #HotelRenovation #MusicStudio #BoutiqueHotel #LosAngelesArchitecture #HistoricPreservation #InteriorDesign #AdaptiveReuse #RockAndRollTheme #HospitalityDesign

The Russell, a new 23-room boutique hotel in East Nashville, exemplifies adaptive reuse by transforming the historic Edgefield Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Developed by Anchor Investments and designed by Powell Architecture + Building Studio, the project aimed to preserve the building's impressive architectural heritage while infusing it with the vibrant, eclectic character of East Nashville. The hotel also has a philanthropic mission, with proceeds from its "Room for Rooms" program supporting Nashville’s homeless community through free housing, showers, and meals. The design narrative for The Russell is largely inspired by the building's original 1904 Romanesque facade and its two arresting, 16-foot stained-glass rose windows in the lobby. The color schemes throughout the property, including the bright tile arrangements and the herringbone wood floor pattern in the lobby, mirror the hues illuminated by these windows. The lobby itself is an airy space featuring a 40-foot ceiling, gold chenille curtains that create "confessional" alcoves, and a wall adorned with "church banners" hand-sewn and painted by Chicago-based artist Shelby Rodeffer of Finer Things. One notable banner, _Queens of Country_, pays tribute to Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, and Tammy Wynette, drawing inspiration from masonic regalia and local culture. During construction, a significant discovery was made: the church's attic possessed substantial unused volume and potential. This led Powell Architecture + Building Studio to swiftly revise their plans, incorporating the space into the design. The unexpected addition of a third floor resulted in five extra guest rooms, including a bi-level suite that creatively integrates the church’s imposing bell tower into a meditative sleeping area. The guest rooms, largely converted from former auditorium and classroom spaces, welcome guests with illuminated door markers crafted by New York lighting studio Rich Brilliant Willing, which are formatted like Biblical verses. The rooms feature exposed brick walls and headboards fashioned from vintage church pews, blending historical elements with contemporary design. A collective of over a dozen local artists and makers contributed to the modern touches, such as the arched wooden bathroom mirrors by Maple Built and powder-coated sconces by Southern Light Electric. Color-blocked walls, echoing the lobby’s stained-glass window hues, further tie the rooms to the building’s past. Efficient wardrobes designed by Holler Design integrate amenities like a built-in fridge, safe, coffeemaker, and desk. This thoughtful integration of old and new creates a welcoming and uniquely characterful experience for guests, all while contributing to a meaningful cause. #HotelConversion #AdaptiveReuse #ChurchRenovation #BoutiqueHotel #NashvilleDesign #HistoricPreservation #CommunityImpact #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalHeritage

America's South is experiencing a significant surge in design-forward hotels, with several design firms expertly blending traditional aesthetics with contemporary design. This trend is producing impressive new hospitality projects that rival the best luxury hotels globally. Morris Adjmi Architects (MA) is at the forefront of this hospitality design boom, particularly in Atlanta and Charleston, where the firm is redefining southern hospitality for a modern context. One notable project is the FORTH Hotel & Social Club in Atlanta's Fourth Ward. Developed and designed in collaboration with Method Co., the hotel features a distinctive diagrid facade and rich, tailored interiors. Morris Adjmi Architects' modern interpretation of early American traditions is evident in the handmade wooden furnishings, layered fabrics, and curated objects that imbue each space with a sense of history. FORTH Atlanta, including its pool area, showcases a harmonious blend of historical inspiration and contemporary execution, aiming to offer an instant sense of belonging. In Charleston, The Pinch, a new luxury boutique hotel, also involves Method Co.'s in-house design studio, Method Studios, in collaboration with Morris Adjmi Architects. This unique development comprises a new three-story structure and three meticulously restored buildings dating back to 1843, located on lower King Street. The design of The Pinch, a luxury hospitality complex, incorporates two distinct facades for the new building: a contextually appropriate limestone facade for King Street and a brick facade for the mews. The property includes a bespoke ground-floor restaurant and a courtyard with an outdoor fireplace. The interior design draws inspiration from English craftsmanship traditions brought to Charleston, featuring timeless yet contemporary elements like velvet sofas, vintage rugs, custom décor, full kitchens, Italian marble farmhouse sinks, and hand-painted terracotta Moroccan floor tiles in the bathrooms. The lobby is designed to feel like a living room, complete with a reclaimed oxblood leather concierge desk, vintage McIntosh stereo, and a curated collection of vinyl, books, and artwork. Traditional details like walnut herringbone floors, classic trim, stonework, and clay plaster walls further reinforce the historical context. Another project by Morris Adjmi Architects is the Asher / ROOST Tampa, a Method Co. endeavor in Tampa's Water Street district. This LEED Gold-certified multifamily building, the largest residential structure in the area, features a grid of factory-style windows as a nod to Tampa’s industrial past, maximizing natural light. It offers a comprehensive package of indoor-outdoor amenities, including a lush rooftop pool. The building houses 501 units, from studios to two-bedroom apartments, along with unique co-living units featuring lockable bedrooms and communal spaces. The interiors balance modern living with timeless materials such as American oak, concrete, terrazzo, walnut, stone, brass, and Venetian plaster, in neutral tones accented by soft greens and living plants. MA also curated FF&E and artwork, including custom commissions, for the common areas. Future projects from Morris Adjmi Architects include the Four Seasons – Charleston and 529 King. The Charleston Hotel & Residences, a five-star hotel with for-sale condominiums, aims to be a modern reinterpretation of Charleston’s historic architecture. It will activate a new public courtyard with retail and gardens. Similarly, 529 King, an extended-stay 'apartment hotel' with amenities, features distinct arched windows and a fiber-reinforced concrete-clad canopy, which earned it architectural merit. This project includes a lush interior courtyard and a penthouse level with a restaurant and rooftop bar, contributing to the architectural renaissance in the American South, led by Morris Adjmi Architects. #HotelDesign #SouthernHospitality #LuxuryHotels #MorrisAdjmiArchitects #MethodCo #CharlestonArchitecture #AtlantaDesign #TampaDevelopments #BoutiqueHotels

The Captain Whidbey, a 100-plus-year-old inn located 30 miles north of Seattle in Washington’s Puget Sound, has been reimagined and reopened by brothers Mike and Matt French, along with designer Eric Cheong. Known for their work with the Pioneertown Motel and Ace Hotels, the team has a history of revitalizing historic properties. Their approach to the Captain Whidbey involved immersing themselves in the inn's existing environment for nine months before making significant changes, allowing them to connect with the landscape, history, and community that held many cherished memories of the beloved place. The renovation incorporated a collaborative spirit, inviting various designers to contribute their unique visions. The four stand-alone cabins, for instance, were given to different designers like We the Nomads, Glasswing, Whidbey Edit, and heritage company Filson, with no specific directives. This resulted in a diverse range of styles, from an airy space with nature-inspired palettes and hand-drawn heron wallpaper to a cabin designed by Filson to emulate a yacht's interior, utilizing reclaimed teak and bass from boats. This collaborative ethos extended throughout the property, engaging local artists, craftspeople, and experts. Handwoven woolen blankets were created by local weaver Hannah Ruth Levy, carrying on a family legacy of weaving on the island. Gardens by Salty Acres hosted chef talks, and Portland fashion designer Kate Towers designed fleece housecoats for guests. The bar featured hand-painted ceramic tiles by Portland’s Mixed Needs, depicting water species and a poem by South Whidbey poet David Whyte. An eccentric library was curated from Captain Rhys Balmer's childhood collection, filled with maritime children’s books, classic sea tales, obscure hippie counterculture stories, and sea survivalist handbooks. For the historic lodge itself, the design aimed for a natural, timeless, and quirk-embracing aesthetic with subtle, organic modern updates. The inn's location within Ebey’s Landing National Historic Reserve meant adhering to historic building restrictions, which Cheong, an avid sailor, viewed as boundaries that deepened the design narrative, much like restoring an old ship. The original building’s idiosyncratic style, influenced by Judge Still who hand-built the inn in 1907, was respected. The more than 100-year-old, hand-hewn Pacific madrone logs, known for their cinnamon bark that darkens to red with age, and a unique, hand-built stone fireplace, where guests traditionally left poems and love letters, became central design elements. These historical features were complemented by custom Scandinavian-inspired furniture and jewel-toned mohair fabric, creating a dialogue with the past while incorporating modern comfort and style. The project showcases a deep reverence for historical context, blending it with contemporary design without compromising the inn's unique character. #HotelRenovation #HistoricPreservation #PacificNorthwestDesign #CollaborativeDesign #InteriorDesign #BoutiqueHotel #WhidbeyIsland #SustainableDesign #CommunityEngagement

Faraway Martha's Vineyard, a hotel in Edgartown, Massachusetts, represents the second property in Blue Flag Partners' bohemian-chic Faraway collection. This project involved the renovation of the 282-year-old Kelley House hotel, which comprised nine distinct buildings and the Newes From America pub, all of which were in need of significant modernization. Jason Brown, CEO of Blue Flag Capital, recognized the potential of the property, having grown up visiting Martha's Vineyard. The goal was to transform the Kelley House into a vibrant destination while respecting its historical context and the unique character of Edgartown. The design inspiration for the renovation was drawn from Carly Simon, a long-time island resident and music icon. This muse allowed for a blend of traditional New England Georgian architecture with a more eclectic interior aesthetic. Workshop/APD, a New York-based architecture and design firm, was responsible for the hotel's reinvention. The exterior architecture, characterized by local shingles, was largely preserved with historically appropriate updates. Inside, the design team aimed to infuse a "hipper, cooler" vibe, imagining what Simon might incorporate into an old New England home. The interior design combines a base layer of elements inspired by the 1950s, '60s, and '70s, integrating both vintage and modern decorative items. Guestrooms feature custom midcentury-inspired furniture and handwoven rugs, designed to evoke a sense of history and discovery, similar to items found at a flea market. The hotel's color scheme is warm and sandy, complemented by floor-to-ceiling drapery that conceals bric-a-brac within oversized cabinetry. Natural materials and greenery, including custom floral pieces, were incorporated to add a "mystical element" and encourage a prolonged stay. The property, previously a disjointed collection of buildings separated by a large parking lot, underwent a significant transformation in its layout and functionality. The main entrance received a new façade, awning, and landscaping. The lobby was expanded to double its height, and two former guestrooms were converted into an inviting library that leads to a new central courtyard. The pool, previously located in an awkward front corner, was relocated to this courtyard. A new cut-through path was created to traverse the grounds, connecting guests and locals to the revitalized space. Lush greenery and soft grasses were introduced to bring a touch of the island's natural, "up-island" wildness to the downtown area. The Faraway Martha's Vineyard now features 58 guestrooms, primarily within the Kelley House and five additional buildings. It also includes three food and beverage venues: the outdoor sushi bar Pelican Club, the poolside Snack Shack, and the existing Newes From America. The project aimed to center Edgartown, making the hotel a connectivity point for the entire island and integrating it more deeply into the local community. #HotelDesign #HospitalityDesign #MarthaVineyard #RenovationProject #WorkshopAPD #BlueFlagPartners #BoutiqueHotel #InteriorDesign #HistoricalRenovation

The Hari Hong Kong, a distinguished hotel that recently received an award, was brought to fruition under challenging circumstances during a global pandemic. Interior designer Tara Bernerd, based in London, spearheaded the project remotely from lockdown, utilizing video calls and WhatsApp to oversee the final stages of design and preparation for its December 2020 opening. Despite not having physically visited the completed hotel, Bernerd's team emphasized a flexible design approach and a strong connection with nature in their work. Bernerd's collaboration on The Hari Hong Kong marked her second project with hospitality businessman Aron Harilela, following a successful prior engagement. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic presented unforeseen obstacles, transforming the execution of the project into a blend of exhilaration and heartbreak. Anticipating the global spread of the virus, Bernerd proactively closed the London headquarters of Tara Bernerd & Partners (TB&P;) in February 2020, even before many other businesses in Britain. This decision necessitated a rapid shift from frequent international travel to a fully remote operational model for her and her team. The transition to remote work involved extensive use of digital communication platforms, particularly Zoom, to manage and coordinate the project. Bernerd credits her team's adaptability and quick reaction to the changing global landscape for successfully navigating the complexities of completing a large-scale project amidst widespread lockdowns. The primary challenge became maintaining design integrity and execution quality without the ability for in-person oversight, pushing the boundaries of traditional interior design processes. The project serves as a testament to the resilience and innovative spirit required to deliver high-quality design work under extraordinary constraints. Although the article provides a detailed account of the remote design process, it does not offer specific details about the materials used, the color palette, or particular design elements that contribute to the flexible design or the connection with nature. However, it implicitly suggests that the design incorporates elements that would resonate with a sense of calm and adaptability, given the challenging context of its creation. The successful opening and subsequent award for The Hari Hong Kong validate the effectiveness of Bernerd's remote design strategy and her team's commitment to their vision, despite geographical separation. #HotelDesign #InteriorDesign #RemoteWork #TaraBernerd #HongKong #LuxuryHotels #PandemicDesign #TravelAndLeisure #AwardWinningDesign

Life House, a tech-driven hotel brand, distinguishes itself through a core philosophy of celebrating neighborhood heritage and identity through design, a strategy evident in its new Denver Lower Highlands (LoHi) property. This marks Life House's first expansion outside the eastern seaboard, following locations in Miami and Nantucket. The company’s in-house studio manages all creative aspects, from interior design to branding and digital content, ensuring a cohesive and thoughtful narrative. VP of Design Jenny Bukovec outlines their three-part approach: developing a locally rooted architectural story, creating a local character as a protagonist, and incorporating spirited cultural references to define the property’s personality. For the Life House Lower Highlands, the design draws inspiration from a 19th-century pioneer’s dwelling, juxtaposing Victorian-era opulence with contemporary industrial elements, mirroring LoHi's historic character. The hotel's exterior, a five-story building, leads into an interior that exudes a homey ambiance. The color palette features muted dusty grays, mustards, rusty reds, and saturated bluebell hues. To further evoke the homestead theme, the design incorporates honey-hued leathers and cowhides, parquet flooring, textured amber glass, and subtle nods to Colorado wildflowers. Throughout the hotel, vintage objects add whimsical touches. A notable piece is a Victorian three-panel leather screen from the late 1890s, hand-painted with motifs of the American Wild West frontier. Bukovec emphasizes the effort to infuse soul into the space, noting that some millwork and furniture, such as banquettes and bed frames, are custom-produced in Colombia. Walls are adorned with illustrative textiles, including wallpapers and murals hand-drawn by Lei Xing, an artist within the Life House team. A salvaged Victorian-era walnut armoire in the lobby features a curated selection of goods from Colorado vendors and candles with the hotel’s signature scent. The bespoke fragrance, a blend of bergamot, fig, vetiver, and cedar, permeates from the lobby and bar to the guest rooms. The 17-key hotel offers various room configurations, many specifically designed for group stays. Options include full-sized bunk chambers, king suites, and combined rooms accommodating up to eight guests. This innovative bunk layout, unique to Life House, provides privacy curtains and staircases instead of ladders, catering to adult travelers seeking communal yet personal spaces. Wildflower, the on-site restaurant and cocktail bar on the ground floor, offers a seasonal, vegetable-forward menu that blends Italian and Mexican flavors in tapas-style dishes, reflecting LoHi's history as an immigrant enclave. Desserts are presented on Victorian trolleys, accompanied by homemade lavender limoncello, amaro, and Colorado meads. Although indoor dining was restricted at the time of publication, Wildflower provided delivery, takeout, and in-room service. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the hotel implemented safety protocols, including temperature checks for guests and staff, mandatory masks in public areas, and socially distanced seating, aiming to enhance Lower Highlands' hospitality scene. #HotelDesign #BoutiqueHotel #DenverTravel #InteriorDesign #Hospitality #ArchitecturalNarrative #VictorianEra #ColoradoCulture #GroupTravelAccommodation

The NoMad Hotel, located in Manhattan, offers a unique blend of Old World charm and modern-day influences, making it a distinctive destination for travelers. The hotel opened in a fully restored, turn-of-the-century Beaux-Arts building, with interiors designed by French designer Jacques Garcia. Garcia is renowned for his ability to integrate 17th- and 18th-century European aesthetics with contemporary design elements, a style evident throughout the hotel. Upon entering the guest rooms, visitors find reclaimed maple hardwood floors adorned with handmade vintage Heriz rugs, complementing French mahogany writing desks. The emphasis on luxurious comfort is further highlighted by linens, bedding, and bathrobes supplied by Sferra and Frette, along with Argan bath amenities. Many rooms elevate the bathing experience with the inclusion of freestanding, clawfoot bathtubs, offering a touch of classic indulgence. Art plays a significant role in the hotel's ambiance, with each room featuring pieces from a carefully curated art program. This collection includes vintage correspondence, antique travel collectibles, and original sketches and photography by contemporary artists, designed to immerse guests in a journey of discovery and intimacy. The aesthetic extends to common areas, where opulent textiles provide a rich and inviting atmosphere, and the staff's uniforms, designed by Bespoken, a New York-based menswear collective, reflect English tailoring traditions. A notable feature of The NoMad Hotel is its two-level library, which is connected by an original spiral staircase imported from the South of France and includes a mezzanine catwalk. This space provides a tranquil retreat for guests. Culinary excellence is a cornerstone of the hotel experience, with the restaurant managed by Chef Daniel Humm and Restaurateur Will Guidara, both acclaimed for their work at the three-Michelin-star-rated Eleven Madison Park. The stately dining room is characterized by dark oak furnishings and richly textured fabrics, creating an elegant setting. An original fireplace, sourced from a French château, adds historical grandeur to the common areas. The bar area features a dramatic 24-foot-long mahogany bar, and guests can enjoy a unique beer crafted exclusively for The NoMad by brewmaster Garrett Oliver of Brooklyn Brewery. A sunlit atrium dining space is created by natural light filtering through a glass roof, offering a bright and airy environment. The architectural firm Stonehill & Taylor played a crucial role in the historical renovation and conversion of the 1903 Johnston building into The NoMad Hotel. Beyond its design, the hotel is praised for its prime location at 1170 Broadway & 28th Street in New York City and its exceptionally friendly staff. The hotel's design highlights include European-style bathrooms with free-standing tubs and the distinctive curated artwork, all contributing to a memorable stay that blends historical elegance with modern comfort. #HotelDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryTravel #NewYorkCity #HistoricRenovation #BeauxArtsArchitecture #FrenchDesign #BoutiqueHotel #ManhattanHotels

Palatino, a key entity within La Bottega Collective and a leader in hospitality design and accessories, has marked its tenth anniversary by introducing a new capsule series. This innovative series was developed in collaboration with a curated selection of architectural and design talents from around the world. The initiative, conceptualized with Paragone, a Paris and New York-based agency representing prominent and emerging design and architecture figures, solidifies Palatino's reputation as a curator blending hospitality, culture, and collectible design. Each capsule in the series consists of a limited collection of non-commercial, heirloom-quality objects, produced in extremely small quantities for specific hospitality properties globally. The series made its debut during Dubai Design Week, featuring Italian interior designer and artistic director Alessandro Moriconi. Moriconi's capsule for Palatino Hospitality embodies a refined approach to living, characterized by his sensitive and intuitive design philosophy. This approach integrates a strong sense of proportion, clean lines, material interaction, and a pursuit of natural harmony. The collection includes a walnut and leather catchall, a sculptural ceramic and aged metal vase, a mirrored tray accented with leather, and a lidded box made of aged metal with stone embellishments. Each item is designed as a functional artwork, combining elegant forms, contrasting textures, and precise finishes, reflecting a contemporary elegance rooted in craftsmanship and timeless design. The collection, which avoids ostentation, highlights refined simplicity and lasting character, echoing Moriconi's skill in creating interiors and objects that convey emotion, memory, and materiality. These pieces will be permanently showcased within the architectural framework of Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, specifically in their iconic Pearl Suite. Following its launch in Dubai, the second installment of Palatino’s capsule collections was revealed in the newly renovated Waldorf Astoria in New York City, featuring Studio Akademos, the Paris-based architectural duo of Aurélien Raymond and Costanza Rossi. These pieces, described as “small architectures,” are characterized by their clean lines, minimal embellishments, and detailed craftsmanship. The use of textured woods, nickel or silver-plated metals, and jewelry-inspired handles emphasizes material richness and timeless elegance. The collection, which began with a jewelry box as a symbol of crafted simplicity, has expanded to include amenity boxes, trays, fruit bowls, and waste bins. Each item is designed to offer thoughtful functionality and subtle luxury for daily use, serving as permanent exhibition pieces in the Waldorf Astoria New York’s Waldorf Suite and Empire Suite. Looking ahead, Palatino has announced two new collaborations for 2026: with London-based design studio Campbell Rey, known for its vibrant and color-driven narratives, and with Dinosaur Designs, an Australian creative house celebrated for its sculptural resin art. These upcoming capsules are expected to further develop Palatino’s design language and reinforce its position as a trendsetter in narrative-driven hospitality design. Gabriella Zavatti, Co-Founder of Palatino, emphasized that this anniversary signifies not only a decade of craftsmanship and creativity but also the beginning of a new phase for the brand. She noted that each capsule represents a dialogue among design, architecture, and hospitality, exploring how objects can transcend their functional roles to become narratives, memories, and expressions of place. Tommaso Pacini, CEO of La Bottega Collective, stated that Palatino is a compelling example of design innovation within the collective, radically transforming the guest experience by reimagining occupancy supplies and equipment as cultural artifacts that redefine luxury for future generations of hospitality. The Palatino 10th Anniversary Capsules represent a significant moment in the brand’s creative history, celebrating design, craftsmanship, and collaboration, and setting the direction for its continued influence in hospitality design over the next decade. Palatino's client base includes prestigious hospitality brands such as Mandarin Oriental, Rosewood, Peninsula, Orient Express, and Bulgari Hotels, as well as renowned properties like Badrutt’s Palace and Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc. #Palatino #LaBottegaCollective #HospitalityDesign #DesignInnovation #LuxuryInteriors #CollectibleDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #BoutiqueHotelDesign