CHAO hotel beijing transformed by GD-lighting design

The XU JI Seafood Restaurant (Land Kylin) in Changsha, Hunan, China, designed by Daxiang Design Studio, presents a dining experience crafted around the core concept of a ‘mysterious jungle’ that transitions into a ‘deep ocean.’ The design narrative aims to evoke a dreamlike state where natural elements are reimagined, blurring the lines between different environments. Upon entering from the fourth floor of the W Hotel, guests are immediately enveloped in a dimly lit space. Star spotlights, emanating from the 'bottom of a tree,' guide them further into the restaurant. Blue light in the distance illuminates large fish seemingly swimming in the air, creating an initial illusion of moving from a jungle into an aquatic realm. This deliberate use of light and visual cues sets a mysterious and immersive tone from the outset. The central area of the restaurant reveals a grander spectacle, with light diffused from a giant curved LED screen on the ceiling, illuminating the entire space. The designers employed fragmented and de-symbolized formal language while maintaining a coherent spatial sequence. This approach involves manipulating structures and materials, along with the strategic placement of furnishings, to create interconnected montage spaces that vary in size and character. One such space is a golden wine house, drawing inspiration from traditional tea rooms, which blends classical and modern styles. This area serves for reception and tasting, enveloped by dense forest-like elements, symbolizing a process of meditation and reflecting oriental aesthetics within a contemporary context. The design incorporates reflective materials and mirrors to enhance the illusion and expand the visual scope of the restaurant. Drawing inspiration from historical metaphors about light reflection, the use of mirrors is not merely for expansion but to create a secretive beauty, respecting the patron's somatosensory consciousness and visual perception. The highly reflective surfaces in the dining hall enrich the spatial layers and visually enlarge the area. Frame-like mirrors break the solidity of walls, allowing diners to view the spectacle of large fish swimming among mountains on the LED screen, reinforcing the mysterious realm theme. Further within the restaurant, a tea tasting area is available in a private box, offering a tranquil space for diners to relax before or after their meal. The sliding doors open to a dining table adorned with wine and delicacies, providing views of the exterior scenery. Adjacent to another large box, an L-shaped sofa in the lounge area is accentuated by warm, diffused light from below. Decorative silk scarf paintings adorn the walls, and different themes are applied to various boxes to cater to diverse preferences, ensuring a quiet and private atmosphere for contemplation post-banquet. The restaurant's central island, featuring a bar counter, reflects a contemporary lifestyle, blending Western expressions with Chinese rhythm. This design choice aims to foster communication between Eastern and Western cultural elements, creating a dynamic and adventurous dining experience for guests within the 'Mysterious Realm.' The XU JI Seafood Restaurant's design is a comprehensive exploration of illusion, blending diverse elements to craft an immersive and multifaceted dining environment. Through careful manipulation of light, materials, and spatial arrangements, Daxiang Design Studio has created a space where the boundaries of reality are playfully challenged, offering a unique adventure for every guest. #RestaurantDesign #OpticalIllusion #InteriorDesign #ExperientialDining #ChineseDesign #DaxiangDesignStudio #MysteriousJungle #ReflectiveMaterials #LEDScreens

Quality hotel lighting is a crucial and often understated element that can profoundly influence a space's ambiance and design. Interior designers acknowledge that light is a magical ingredient that can make or break an interior, yet good lighting should often go unnoticed in most projects. This article champions innovative approaches to hotel lighting, exploring how architectural and decorative lighting, when used sensitively, can transform a space and deepen its overall design scheme. Several leading interior designers and lighting experts share their perspectives and favorite lighting design schemes to illustrate this power. Simon Rawlings, Creative Director at David Collins Studio, discusses the lighting concept for Nobu Hotel London Portman Square. The design focused on creating a seamless flow and unity throughout the hotel, with specific lighting tailored to each area's mood and function. In the Lobby Lounge, a multi-layered lighting concept enhances comfort and glamour, transitioning from a relaxed daytime feel to a dramatic nighttime scene. Custom bronze wall lights create rippling light effects, while the central bar's rich textures are highlighted by overhead lighting encased in linen and alabaster shades. Marie Soliman, Co-Founder of Bergman Design House, showcases the Phoenix lighting installation in Laowai, a speakeasy bar in Vancouver. This lighting scheme, featuring a flying flock of Phoenix fixtures by Karice lighting and peacock-inspired emerald lampshades, brings a sense of freedom and glamor. Inspired by 1930s Shanghai speakeasies, the lighting contributes to the bar's illicit and seductive atmosphere, enhancing the secretive entrance through a hidden door in the BLND TGER restaurant. Paul Nulty, Founder of Nulty, an international lighting design practice, highlights the Rove Expo 2020 Hotel in Dubai. Nulty’s lighting scheme for the only hotel on the Expo 2020 site aligns with the Expo's theme of ‘Connecting Minds and Creating the Future’ and the hotel’s LEED Gold design concept. The all-LED lighting system, controlled by DALI, allows for individual area adjustments throughout the day. Working with RSP and Arco Group, Nulty created a contemporary scheme that incorporates Dubai’s heritage and culture. The expansive ground floor features layers of illumination to define distinct zones—lobby, lounge, co-working, bar, and café—while maintaining a cohesive flow. Oversized orange pendants and linear lights create visual interest and delineate spaces, with the bar area featuring intricate white metalwork and functional track lights. Lara Bohinc and Adam Coare of Dernier & Hamlyn discuss the bespoke chandelier for The Mandrake Hotel, London's Penthouse Suite. The chandelier, a testament to haute couture design, features over 1,100 individually machined and hand-finished antique nickel metal tubes, mechanically fixed to a lightweight aluminum frame. Equipped with 30 LED G9 lamps, it provides perfect illumination for the unique room. Adam Coare emphasized the complexity and rewarding nature of bringing such a demanding commission to life, from initial concept to manufacturing. Martin Brudnizki, Founder of Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, explains the revolutionary lighting design in Annabel’s, an iconic members' club in London. Though not a hotel, its redesign, led by Brudnizki, showcases innovative lighting. Recognizing the club operates from morning to night, the design integrated lighting across three levels: low-level ground lighting, mid-level wall lights, and overhead chandeliers. Collaborating with Isometrix, the studio created a scheme that adapts to the time of day, offering bright natural light for daytime meetings and a moodier, playful atmosphere for evenings, ensuring members feel both comfortable and excited. #HotelLighting #InteriorDesign #LightingDesign #ArchitecturalLighting #DecorativeLighting #HospitalityDesign #BespokeLighting #DesignInnovation

Nido Architecture co-founders Chiara Patrassi and Alexandra Bernaudin collaborated with hotel owner and director Carine Tissot and six contemporary artists to design the interiors of the Drawing Hotel in Paris. Tissot, also co-founder of the annual Drawing Now Art Fair, provided the artists with creative freedom to decorate the hotel's hallways. Despite initial unfamiliarity with contemporary drawing, Patrassi noted the artists' enthusiasm and willingness to work with new mediums. The hotel features five distinct floors, each showcasing a unique visual theme. Swedish painter Thomas Broomé utilized perspective grayscale lettering for wallpaper depicting an ideal library on the top floor. Watercolorist Françoise Pétrovitch designed the fourth floor with forest green walls, sophisticated paintings in simple frames, and variegated tufted wool carpeting. Draftsman Clément Bagot's abstract colorful splashes are embedded behind glass panes in all-black walls on the third floor. Muralist Abdelkader Benchamma hand-drew trees and plants on white walls for the second floor, and graffiti duo Lek & Sowat created a psychedelic environment spanning walls, ceiling, and floor on the first level. These vibrant corridors contrast with the calm, relaxed atmosphere of the 48 guest rooms, where artist-designed printed-fabric headboards serve as a transitional element. The hotel was an unexpected venture for Tissot, who discovered the building while seeking a location for a permanent gallery. Patrassi and Bernaudin joined the project in 2016, during the initial construction phase of the ground floor. Faced with the typical Parisian challenge of limited space, the architects made crucial alterations, such as replacing frosted-glass shower modules with transparent ones and substituting minuscule closets with glass-and-steel wardrobes to create separate toilet areas. The overarching design principle was _chaleureux_, meaning welcoming, prominently featured through tinted oak paneling and custom wood furnishings throughout the hotel. This included the lounge's leather sofas, reception desk, bar, and various tables. The ground level, spanning 1,900 square feet, posed a significant challenge, needing to accommodate the entrance, reception, retail space, and lounge. The reception area features an angular design with low shelves displaying books and objects for sale. A partition of oak rods, serving as a library, defines the adjoining lobby, which includes a bold black-and-white rug, a Neri & Hu loveseat, and a sculptural Philippe Nigro chair. Beyond this, the cocktail lounge overlooks a courtyard with red walls, a tribute to Luis Barragán. Stairs lead to the basement Drawing Lab, a contemporary gallery that was the genesis of the hotel concept. The exterior of the hotel more closely resembles a bookstore or art shop than a traditional hotel, reflecting the goal of achieving a gallery atmosphere rather than a 'deco' look. The roof terrace offers guests views of the surrounding Parisian mansard rooftops, furnished seasonally with tables, chairs, and umbrellas. The stairs leading to the terrace are currently painted white, with the possibility of future artistic installations. The project team included Magali Amblard for Nido Architecture, Maurice Azoulay as Architect of Record, Symbiosis for landscaping, Douet Design for lighting, Cap Structures for structural engineering, Innovation Fluides for MEP, and Ramos Catarino for woodwork. #NidoArchitecture #DrawingHotel #ParisHotels #HotelDesign #ContemporaryArt #InteriorDesign #ArtisticCollaboration #HospitalityDesign #CustomFurnishings

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

The SO Sofitel Bangkok presents itself as a leading fashion-forward lifestyle hotel in Thailand, distinguished by its unique design collaboration with world-renowned fashion designer Monsieur Christian Lacroix and five prominent Thai designers. This urban luxury hotel offers a modern blend of Eastern and Western aesthetics, catering to style-conscious travelers. Monsieur Christian Lacroix's influence is evident throughout the property, from the staff uniforms and the hotel’s logo to the executive lounge, which features modernist artwork, vibrant furniture, and panoramic city views. The hotel's elegant rooms are categorized according to the five elements of Chinese culture, with each element's design concept executed by a different local artist. For instance, metal-themed rooms are characterized by brilliant white interiors, while water-themed rooms adopt rich, dark, and intimate palettes to evoke an underwater sensation. Earth suites offer a more unconventional design, resembling ancient grottoes with deep blue walls adorned with sketches of mammoths and other exotic animals. Beyond its distinctive accommodations, SO Sofitel Bangkok offers a diverse culinary experience. The hotel hosts a traditional street market-style food hall with live cooking stations, a sophisticated rooftop restaurant, and a boutique chocolate café. The award-winning Park Society restaurant is noted for its creative cuisine and unparalleled views of Lumpini Park, while Chocolab serves chocolates from Bonnat, one of the world’s oldest chocolatiers based in France. The hotel also boasts a prominent rooftop infinity pool in Bangkok, offering panoramic views over Lumpini Park. The SO Sofitel Bangkok aims to set a new standard for luxury leisure hotels in the city by seamlessly integrating style and elegance into its overall design and guest experience. The property's commitment to a design-led approach, combined with its unique artistic collaborations and diverse amenities, positions it as a notable destination in Bangkok's hospitality landscape. #HotelDesign #Bangkok #LuxuryHotel #InteriorDesign #FashionForward #ChristianLacroix #LifestyleHotel #ArchitecturalDesign #Hospitality

This article details the thoughtful lighting design within the Roundhouse, a full-service hospitality complex located in Beacon, New York. The Roundhouse is housed in historic 150-year-old structures that once served as a textile mill, and it offers a boutique hotel, an award-winning American restaurant, and an event space accommodating up to 200 guests. The property provides scenic views of a waterfall, a creek, and a bustling street, positioned conveniently close to Niche's location. The interior design of the Roundhouse prominently features contributions from local artisans, with Niche modern pendant lighting playing a significant role in creating an inviting atmosphere. In the creekside lounge, a cluster of custom Niche Crystal Solitaire pendants in various sizes is suspended above the bar. These minimalist pendants are designed to highlight a single Edison-style lamp, casting a warm glow that enhances the cozy ambiance of the lounge, making it an ideal spot for guests to relax by a fire and enjoy the Roundhouse’s signature cocktails. Elizabeth Strianese, the Interior Designer responsible for the original remodel, explains her vision for the lighting. She initially explored numerous custom chandelier concepts, all aimed at creating a playful and highly reflective effect. The Solitaire lights were ultimately chosen for their ability to evoke the appearance of large bubbles floating above the dark, grounded bar area. This design choice resulted in an elegant yet uncomplicated aesthetic, imbued with a subtle flirtatious quality. Within the restaurant area, which features floor-to-ceiling windows offering expansive views of the waterfall, tables of varying sizes are arranged throughout. Here, custom Niche Helio pendants, crafted from Effervescent glass with a custom Mercury overlay, hang from the high, wood-paneled ceiling. The Helio pendant is known for its versatility, offering both translucent and opaque color palettes, along with a range of lamping options. Its compact shape makes it particularly effective when grouped, as demonstrated in this setting. Strianese elaborates on the collaboration with Niche for the restaurant's lighting, seeking a custom pendant that would combine Niche's characteristic natural, handmade aesthetic with an added touch of sparkle. The objective was to install unique, locally-made lights at differing heights across the ceiling, creating an effect reminiscent of jewels or stars scattered across the sky. The Roundhouse restaurant features a large concrete shell, and the design aimed to maintain this industrial character. However, the lighting was intended to introduce a luxurious element that would elevate the space. Niche proved to be an ideal partner, successfully developing a light fixture that emits a soft, romantic interior glow while its exterior sparkles with reflections, adding a "bronzey fun" dimension to the ambiance. #RestaurantLighting #HotelDesign #BoutiqueHotel #ModernLighting #PendantLights #InteriorDesign #HistoricRenovation #UpstateNewYork

The Fleming Hotel, a boutique establishment in Hong Kong, underwent a significant redesign and rebrand by A Work of Substance, transforming a 1970s building into a modern hotel deeply inspired by the city's maritime and industrial heritage. The primary inspiration for this transformation was the Star Ferry, an iconic symbol of Hong Kong's cultural landscape. This influence is evident throughout the hotel's interior design, notably in the strategic use of carmine reds and bottle greens. These specific hues pay homage to the color palettes commonly observed on Hong Kong's ferries, traditional fishing boats, local delivery trucks, and revered temples, thereby embedding a strong sense of local identity and history into the aesthetic. Upon entering The Fleming, guests are immediately immersed in an atmosphere reminiscent of a ship, subtly blurring the lines between a hotel and a vessel. This maritime ambiance is reinforced through various nautical elements seamlessly integrated into the design, such as distinctive signage that guides guests through the premises. While common areas like hallways feature a more subdued lighting scheme, the guest rooms are designed to be bright and airy, thanks to large windows that allow ample natural light. Complementing these windows are custom light fixtures, intricately detailed with brass elements, which serve as a nod to Hong Kong's rich industrial past, blending historical reverence with contemporary design. The hotel offers a range of room sizes, each meticulously designed to maintain the overarching theme while ensuring comfort and functionality. The custom-designed furniture and lighting fixtures throughout the hotel further emphasize the unique blend of maritime and industrial influences, creating a cohesive and immersive experience for guests. Bathrooms in The Fleming are stocked with Shen Nong apothecary-inspired toiletries, featuring nostalgic scents of sandalwood and amber. These bespoke amenities add an authentic touch, enhancing the sensory experience and connecting guests with local traditions. Adding to the hotel's appeal is Osteria Marzia, an Italian restaurant operated by the Black Sheep Restaurant group, conveniently located adjacent to the hotel's entrance. The restaurant's menu features Italian cuisine with flavors inspired by various seaside cities, further complementing the hotel's maritime theme. The exterior of The Fleming is thoughtfully designed with custom nautical fixtures that illuminate the facade, evoking the image of a dockside shack and reinforcing the hotel's unique character from the moment of arrival. The Fleming Hotel offers more than just accommodation; it provides an immersive cultural experience. With rooms starting at approximately $183 per night, it caters to travelers seeking a deep connection with Hong Kong's history and character. The design, with its brooding yet welcoming ambiance, is tailored for those who desire not merely a place to sleep but an encounter that narrates Hong Kong's past and present through its sophisticated and evocative interiors. The comprehensive redesign by A Work of Substance successfully marries historical homage with modern luxury, creating a distinctive urban retreat. #HotelDesign #HongKongCulture #MaritimeInspired #IndustrialAesthetic #BoutiqueHotel #InteriorDesign #AWorkOfSubstance #StarFerryInfluence #UrbanHotel

Kubo Tsushima Architects has designed two distinct hotel rooms within a boutique hotel in Kyoto, Japan, focusing on creating unique and memorable guest experiences through integrated design elements. The first room, Room 103, nicknamed 'Moon Phases,' addresses the challenge of a narrow window by featuring a circular light fixture carved into the wall. This fixture is designed to mimic the phases of the moon, transitioning from a full moon to a crescent as the room's lights are dimmed. This interactive lighting aims to connect guests with the natural rhythm of lunar cycles, drawing a parallel between the moon's influence on tides and its perceived impact on human emotions and the body, a concept highlighted by the architects given the body's high water content. The design of Room 103 further enhances a sense of seclusion and comfort by incorporating rounded junctions between the walls and ceiling, creating a soft, enveloping environment. The second room, Room 401, is themed 'Morning Dawn' and is situated on the fourth floor, offering expansive views of the city through a large window. For this space, the architects sought to evoke the serene atmosphere of an early morning dawn shrouded in mist. This is achieved through a deliberate use of color and form: a green carpet covers the floor, symbolizing a grassy plain, and extends upwards onto the walls with a gradient paint scheme that shifts from green to white. This artistic transition blurs the lines between floor and wall, immersing guests in the sensation of being surrounded by a field. The room's architecture emphasizes soft, continuous surfaces, with rounded walls concealing structural elements like columns and beams. Indirect lighting is strategically placed in a slit between the ceiling and walls, designed to replicate the gentle, sharp light of the rising sun. This combination of diffused lighting, gradient colors, and rounded forms creates a hazy, undefined space, offering a quiet and contemplative experience reminiscent of a deeply foggy, pure morning. Both rooms, totaling 51.81 sqm for Room 103 and 50.39 sqm for Room 401, were completed in December 2019 and showcase Kubo Tsushima Architects' innovative approach to interior design, using natural phenomena as inspiration to craft immersive and experiential hotel environments at The Screen Hotel in Kyoto. #HotelDesign #InteriorArchitecture #ExperientialDesign #LightingDesign #JapaneseArchitecture #KuboTsushimaArchitects #TheScreenHotel #Kyoto

The article discusses current trends in hotel bathroom lighting, featuring insights from four industry experts. Bart Maeyens, general manager of Modular Lighting Instruments, emphasizes the growing influence of wellness in design, leading to a preference for natural or natural-looking materials and aesthetics. This includes the use of marble and raw metals like steel and aluminum, often combined with unevenly finished surfaces to achieve a more organic feel. Robert Sonneman, executive chairman and chief creative officer at Sonneman—A Way of Light, highlights the importance of creating an inviting and comfortable bathroom experience through lighting. He recommends even illumination, a comfortable level of brightness, and warm color temperatures. Such lighting not only flatters skin tones but also contributes to a welcoming ambiance, blending utility with comfort. Kelly Aaron, chief luminary at Blueprint Lighting, points out the practicality of leveraging lighting to keep hotel designs current. Unlike more expensive and complex updates to countertops and fixtures, lighting can be easily and affordably replaced. This allows hotels to embrace new trends and refresh the room's aesthetic in a matter of minutes or years, making it a flexible design element. Peter Bowles, Managing Director of Original BTC, notes a nostalgic turn in bathroom design, driven by the prevalence of social media and the desire to create unique boutique hotel experiences. This trend involves recalling vintage styles, particularly those from the 1930s and 1960s, in elements such as bath furniture, tilework, and, importantly, lighting. This approach aims to infuse flair and functionality into modern hotel bathrooms while offering a distinct character for guests. Overall, the experts highlight a shift towards natural aesthetics, comfortable and flattering illumination, cost-effective design updates, and nostalgic vintage styles to enhance the guest experience in hotel bathrooms. #HotelDesign #BathroomLighting #DesignTrends #LightingFixtures #WellnessDesign #NostalgicStyles #HospitalityDesign #InteriorDesign #GuestExperience

The MOSH Bar & Dinner, located at Strada Matei Millo 5 in Bucharest, Romania, is an interior design project by INNOCAD Architecture that opened in 2023. The 369 sqm space is conceived as a “Multitalented Space,” capable of transitioning seamlessly between fine dining, mixology, and club environments, aiming to provide an experience that extends beyond mere functional and aesthetic considerations. The design integrates hospitality, art, and design in a distinct manner. The layout of MOSH Bar & Dinner is organized into three primary areas: a garden lounge, private dining, and a central 'epicenter.' The epicenter forms a room-in-room structure, housing a bar, two communal tables, and a DJ booth. This central area is equipped with a high-end sound system from Lambda Labs and features optimized acoustics to support its varied functions. All three main areas are unified under a built-in canopy, which serves as a cohesive architectural element. To the left of the entrance, the garden lounge offers a serene atmosphere with an organic shape, enclosed by windows and abundant vegetation. This area extends visually into a planted forecourt, blurring the distinction between indoor and outdoor spaces, especially with the use of opening windows. A significant artistic feature in this lounge is “Manic Youth,” an artwork by Austrian sculptor Manfred Erjautz, which is suspended from the ceiling. This biophilic sculpture, crafted from the rhizome of a 100-year-old oak, was specifically commissioned for this hospitality design, contributing to the unique character of the venue. For guests seeking more seclusion, a slightly elevated private dining area is available. This space is enclosed by translucent curtains, providing privacy and an exclusive setting for smaller gatherings. The conceptual foundation of the restaurant, including its logo, was also developed by INNOCAD. The logo is inspired by a place setting, with a circle as its core element, symbolizing a plate, social connection, and unity. This circular motif is subtly woven into the design through a fractal lighting concept and custom curtains that envelop the entire space, defining the private dining sections. INNOCAD Architecture collaborated with 13&9 Design and Richard Taylor from the University of Oregon and Fractals Research to incorporate a science-based design solution aimed at enhancing user well-being. This involved the integration of a backlit fractal pattern into the epicenter’s suspended ceiling. This pattern, known for its stress-reductive qualities, projects immersive lighting onto the floor as dynamic, flying dots, creating an engaging visual experience. The ambiance of the venue can be adjusted through three distinct lighting scenes via a KNX system: a bright setting for dining, a dimmed atmosphere for post-dinner bar activities, and a party mode featuring a movable fractal light, allowing for adaptable environments throughout the day and night. #InteriorDesign #HospitalityArchitecture #BucharestRestaurant #INNOCADArchitecture #FractalLighting #BiophilicDesign #TransformativSpace #ArchitecturalArt #AcousticOptimization

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 final Hotel Designs roundtable of 2023, sponsored by Kohler, brought together leading interior designers to discuss the evolving landscape of bathroom design within the hospitality sector. The discussion centered on integrating bathrooms and bedrooms in hotel settings, exploring current trends, challenges, and future innovations. The expert panel included Corinna Galdies of G.A Group, Tom Thorogood of Studio Moren, Dimos Giorgou of Tara Bernard & Partners, Fiona Thompson of Richmond International, Sophie Borel of Cheval Collection, Mark Henderson of YOTEL, Henning Schmidt of Six Senses Hotels, Resorts & Spas, and Kevin Miles of Kohler. One of the primary topics addressed was the merging of bathroom and bedroom spaces while maintaining practicality and guest experience. Henning Schmidt highlighted the need for merging elements in luxury properties, often using consistent surface materials to create a shared design language, though preferring separation for privacy. Dimos Giorgou pointed out that location, building type, and overall design scheme significantly influence the approach, with urban hotels often requiring more privacy than resort-style properties. Glass and sliding doors are increasingly used to open up spaces while still offering the option for seclusion. Tom Thorogood noted the growing trend towards open-concept bathrooms in lifestyle and resort hotels, emphasizing that dynamic elements like moving screens or obscured glazing can provide necessary privacy without sacrificing an airy feel. He stressed the importance of seamless design transitions, including consistent flooring, color palettes, and artwork, to create a harmonious and luxurious guest experience, especially in hotels with limited space like a new project in Tokyo. Sophie Borel added that designers face challenges with shrinking spaces and diverse demographic needs, noting that guest expectations for bathrooms vary significantly across different regions, such as the Middle East versus Europe. The conversation also touched upon enhancing bathrooms in budget-conscious brands like YOTEL. Mark Henderson explained that guests, increasingly knowledgeable about design and construction from social media, expect quality products even in more affordable hotels. He emphasized the importance of getting the basics right and selecting durable, quality brands, particularly for operational longevity. Fiona Thompson reiterated this point, highlighting that the bathroom is the most expensive and least frequently renovated part of a guestroom, necessitating careful consideration of materials and fittings that will endure for two decades or more. The role of technology in bathroom design was another significant point of discussion. Sophie Borel expressed concerns about technology's rapid evolution contrasting with the need for long-lasting design schemes, suggesting that advanced tech might be better suited for larger suites as a differentiator. Corinna Galdies confirmed this, noting that tech showers are often reserved for suites, and some projects prioritize technology-driven experiences while others focus on traditional bathing rituals. Tom Thorogood observed that the sophistication of bedroom technology is extending into bathrooms, with features like digital shower controls and integrated speakers enhancing functionality and guest experience. Mark Henderson clarified that while YOTEL utilizes technology for efficiency, such as air quality control and BMS systems, they avoid incorporating tech for its own sake, prioritizing simplicity and functionality. Kevin Miles of Kohler addressed designers' concerns about integrating technology, explaining that digital showers, which Kohler has developed for years, are now expected by guests who use them at home. He highlighted the user-friendly interface, haptic response, and iconography of Kohler's smart showers, as well as their sustainability features that track water usage. He also pointed out the customization options that make smart showers appealing to brands. Fiona Thompson expressed a pragmatic view, supporting technology only when it genuinely enhances the design and experience, while acknowledging the importance of sustainability. Tom Thorogood raised a pertinent question about the longevity of digital showers compared to analog fittings, suggesting that while software can be updated, the hardware might age faster than traditional, durable fixtures, underscoring the ongoing challenge of balancing innovation with timeless design in hotel bathrooms. #HotelDesign #BathroomDesign #InteriorDesign #HospitalityTrends #LuxuryHotels #TechnologicalIntegration #GuestExperience #SustainableDesign

The increasing pursuit of bathing pleasure has led hotels to create exceptional bathroom spaces, transforming them from mere amenities into luxurious sanctuaries. These new 'personal pleasure palaces' often feature lavish materials like marble, ranging in style from minimalist onsen-inspired designs to technologically advanced setups. Santa Clara 1728 in Lisbon, Portugal, a hotel with just six rooms, features bathrooms that blend modern design with ancient architecture. The walls are covered in hand-cut white tiles, complemented by pinewood flooring and shelving. A large freestanding tub and cylindrical wash basins, both carved from Portuguese Lioz limestone, are central features. Each bathroom also includes an adjacent wet-room with an industrial-sized shower overlooking the hotel's gardens. The Four Seasons in Kuwait City showcases bathrooms designed by Yabu Pushelberg. These spaces are characterized by grey and white striped marble, meticulously aligned, and screened from bedrooms by sliding doors. Australian luxury bath makers Apaiser provided standalone tubs, walk-in showers, and twin sinks. Bronze fixtures, in-mirror televisions, and concealed lighting add dramatic accents, while mosaic tiling or contemporary mashrabiya screens subtly interrupt the marble expanses. Elements of Byron in Byron Bay, Australia, situated amidst 50 acres of wilderness, offers cabins with private walled decks for outdoor bathing. The bathrooms reflect a Japanese simplicity-meets-Australian informality, with an onsen vibe achieved through wooden bath stools and ladder towel racks. Potted cheesecloth plants, rattan armchairs, and shell chandeliers nod to the area's bohemian aesthetic. Barcelona's Almanac hotel, designed by Jaime Beriestain Studio, features cinematic, contemporary art deco interiors. Its immaculate bathrooms include double sink vanities with individual mirrors, walk-in showers, and full-length tubs, all adorned with marble and glass. Muted metal fixtures, hovering between copper and gold, and bespoke bath products from Scottish-Catalan perfumer Jimmy Boyd soften the opulent feel. Hotel Bocage in Hua Hin, Thailand, is a concrete-centric design by Akaradej Pantisoontorn, with interiors by Duangrit Bunnag. The bathrooms are separated from the main room by floor-to-ceiling glass walls, offering dramatic views of the Gulf of Thailand. Sculptural sanitary ware by Antonio Lupi and bamboo charcoal-based toiletries from Charcoalogy complete the minimalist design. Le Mount Stephen in Montréal, Canada, a former private members' club, features resolutely contemporary rooms and marble-minimal bathrooms in its new annexe. These bathrooms are technologically advanced, boasting Japanese Toto toilets with heated seats, Cura chromatherapy showerheads in walk-in rain showers, and toiletries by Italy’s Comfort Zone. Practical additions like window-defoggers and heated floors are crucial for the Canadian climate. The Sofitel Darling Harbour in Sydney, Australia, occupies the top 35 floors of a skyscraper. Designed by Dreamtime Australia Design and the A+ Design Group, its sandstone bathrooms are spacious, with some featuring twin basins and twin walk-in rain showers. Freestanding tubs offer panoramic views of the bay and city skyline. Lanvin toiletries are provided. Verride Palácio Santa Catarina in Lisbon, Portugal, a converted 18th-century townhouse, features eclectic bathrooms designed by Teresa Nunes da Ponte. Some, like the Queen's Suite, have parquet floors, standalone tubs, and refurbished 18th-century Azulejo panels. Others are open-plan beige marble spaces with wet-room style overhead showers and trough-like sinks, often with a view. Aesop toiletries are a consistent offering. Amanbagh in Ajabgarh, India, designed by Ed Tuttle, offers sumptuous, light-filled bathrooms in a re-imagined campsite setting. The design incorporates Indian minimalist elements with warmth from wooden door panels, Mughal arches, and cappuccino-coloured stone flooring. A large, sunken green Udaipur marble bath is a central feature, ideal for relaxation after a day at the private pool or ayurvedic spa. 137 Pillars in Bangkok, Thailand, located in a skyscraper, has sparkling interiors by P49 Deesign. Its jazzy marble bathrooms include glass-walled rain-showers and deep, circular standalone tubs, perfect for watching TV or enjoying the expansive city views through floor-to-ceiling windows. #LuxuryHotel #BathroomDesign #InteriorDesign #HotelArchitecture #TravelAccommodation #SpaExperience #ModernDesign #SustainableDesign #GlobalHotels

Hospitality design is a critical aspect of the industry, with hotel décor significantly impacting customer satisfaction and perceptions of service quality. While amenities like dining and spas often capture attention, the bathroom is a crucial element that can elevate a guest's experience. This article explores five prominent hotel bathroom design trends observed across the UK, emphasizing how these styles contribute to a high-end guest experience. The first trend, "Timeless & Traditional," is exemplified by London's Laslett Hotel. Designed by Waldo Works, this boutique hotel in Notting Hill features 51 guestrooms with bathrooms that seamlessly extend the hotel's refined grey, black, and white palette. The design incorporates traditional elements with subtle contemporary touches, such as porcelain checkerboard tiles and modern pendant lighting, complemented by Crosswater Belgravia brassware, creating a sophisticated yet current aesthetic. "Refined Luxury" is another key trend, as seen in The Dorsett Hotel in Shepherds Bush. This Grade II Listed building, transformed from an old cinema by Flanagan Lawrence, showcases a minimalist design approach in its bathrooms. The focus is on luxurious surfaces and chrome detailing, where sleek brassware harmonizes with marble splashbacks, providing a contemporary and opulent feel that reflects the hotel's overall elegance. The selection of bathroom suites and products is crucial in achieving this desired aesthetic. Monochrome designs continue to be a favored trend among designers, offering a timeless and impactful look. The Ampersand Hotel in London serves as a prime example, with Dexter Moren Associates creating an Art Deco-themed bathroom interior. Classic black tiling contrasts with white walls and crisp white ceramics, enhanced by contemporary Crosswater brassware, resulting in a striking and luxurious monochromatic scheme. "Texture & Pattern" introduces elements that add depth and character to hotel bathrooms. Sopwell House in Hertfordshire demonstrates this trend by combining textured wood surfaces with geometric patterned tiles. This blend creates a harmonious and calming atmosphere, further enhanced by strategic lighting that highlights the textures. The use of Crosswater MPRO rainfall showers and brushed brass basin taps adds a high-quality finish, emphasizing functionality and luxury. Finally, "Brutalist Glamour" is explored through the Mondrian London Hotel on the River Thames, designed by Tom Dixon. This hotel’s bathrooms embody an eclectic and luxurious aesthetic, drawing inspiration from a transatlantic 1920s liner. The interiors feature rich color palettes contrasted with metallic finishes, creating a brutalist nautical theme. Marble surfaces and black basins contribute to a luxe finish in the en-suites, while public washrooms incorporate porthole mirrors and metallic details, reinforcing the maritime concept. Ultimately, hotel bathrooms are presented as significant design statements, providing a sanctuary that blends functionality with deluxe finishes, essential for a luxurious hotel experience. #HotelDesign #BathroomTrends #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHospitality #TimelessDesign #MonochromeStyle #TexturedInteriors #BrutalistGlamour #LondonDesignFestival

The field of interior design is undergoing a significant transformation, moving beyond traditional aesthetics to embrace technology-driven experiences. This shift is highlighted by David Taglione of ICRAVE, a multidimensional design studio, who emphasizes the integration of physical, digital, and virtual elements to create immersive environments. The article outlines how digital technology is drastically changing how physical environments are created, requiring designers to think multidimensionally and incorporate digital strategy and customer journey mapping into their briefs. The evolution of interior design now prioritizes "experience design," where spaces are crafted to engage patrons through immersive brand experiences, integrating digital and immersive design with strong visual narratives. Key examples illustrate this evolution, starting with Sphere in Las Vegas, a project that demonstrates the critical role of emerging technology in the entertainment industry. For Sphere, a high-tech architectural lighting system was implemented to manipulate the venue's mood and energy, ensuring an immersive connection for guests and building anticipation for events. Another project, TSX Broadway in Times Square, aims to revolutionize artist-fan connections by blending physical and virtual worlds. This multi-use building incorporates augmented retail, futuristic showrooms with LED screens, a retractable stage, and a 'Retail Alley' with a programmable tunnel, offering both real-life and metaverse experiences. The project leverages Web3 capabilities to unite entertainment-seekers and level the playing field for artists and brands. The impact of virtual and digital technologies extends to healthcare and travel, as seen in the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center project. Here, technology was used to enhance the patient and family experience, making cancer care less anxiety-inducing. A personalized Real-Time Locating System (RTLS) device was introduced to allow patients, caregivers, and staff to move more freely within the facility, providing patients with greater agency and control over their time during treatment. This approach aims to create a more hospitable and less restrictive environment, enabling patients to use their time more thoughtfully and productively. Digital technology is also instrumental in revitalizing historical destinations and exhibitions. For London's iconic Battersea Station, digital elements such as animated technical drawings and interactive tables with AR web apps were integrated to engage a new generation of audiences. These digital tools worked together to tell a cohesive story, allowing visitors to participate actively in the Power Station's rich history, transforming it into a dynamic entertainment destination. Since its reopening, Battersea Station has attracted over 11 million visitors, demonstrating the success of combining historical reverence with modern technological engagement. As a result of these advancements, the role of interior designers has expanded significantly. Designers are now tasked with finding technological solutions that harmonize with physical spaces and connect emotionally with consumers. The shift from focusing purely on aesthetics to creating multidimensional experiences signifies a new era in design, where technology is not just a tool but a fundamental component in crafting engaging and impactful environments. #InteriorDesign #DigitalTransformation #ExperienceDesign #ImmersiveExperiences #TechnologicalInnovation #SphereLasVegas #TSXBroadway #HealthcareDesign #ArchitecturalLighting

The article showcases 53, an Asian-fusion restaurant in Midtown Manhattan, designed by ICrave, led by founder and CEO Lionel Ohayon. Located at the base of Ateliers Jean Nouvel’s 53 West 53 residential tower, adjacent to the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the restaurant aims to provide an immersive dining experience that transcends mere culinary satisfaction. Ohayon emphasizes the concept of a “yummy” room, where a harmonious blend of lighting, acoustics, materiality, layout, visual impact, and a sense of discovery compels diners to return. The restaurant was recognized as a 2022 Best of Year Winner for Fine Dining. The 11,000-square-foot space is divided into a street-level bistro and a subterranean main dining room. Jean Nouvel’s architectural design, characterized by angular beams, allows for expansive column-free areas and intimate dining zones. Given its proximity to a world-renowned contemporary art museum, ICrave approached the project not as traditional interior design but as a sculptural or painterly endeavor. This artistic philosophy is evident in the restaurant's most prominent feature: three dozen giant curving fins that span the entire width of the space. These fins emerge from the street-level ceiling, cascade down in front of the bistro, sweep underneath, and wrap around the ceiling of the main dining room. Each fin is edged with a bright stripe, featuring nine neon-like colors derived from the Nine-Dragon Wall reliefs found in Chinese imperial palaces. These hues also subtly reference the diverse Asian cultures represented in the menu and the modern art displayed at MoMA. The restaurant plans to host a rotating selection of fine art in collaboration with the Friedrich Petzel Gallery. The fin installation, glossy black on one side and sepia-toned on the other, creates a lenticular effect as guests move through the restaurant or view it from the sidewalk. Ohayon describes the installation as both a loom and a veil, with its vibrant colors attracting attention from passersby and directing their gaze to the aerial arrangement of tables, banquettes, and chairs set on an ink-wash carpet, which features subtle smokey grays echoing Nouvel’s steel construction. Ohayon highlights the importance of creating a unique piece of the city's landscape, fostering memories for visitors and a sense of place for residents. The sculptural architectural gesture draws inspiration from the Chinese artistic principle of xieyi, emphasizing broad, expressive strokes and representing the chi or energy flow within 53. In contrast, the principle of gongbi, which focuses on realism and fine detail, guided the selection of decor elements. For example, the colors from the fin edges are subtly echoed in the precious stones used as chopstick rests. Lighting, a critical component of the "yummy" atmosphere, was developed in collaboration with Licht, ICrave's in-house studio. The main dining room features cove lighting, slender cylindrical pendant fixtures that adjust with ceiling height variations, and circular sconces softly illuminating the ecru suede-like walls. An ethereal cluster of small LEDs forms a twinkling cloud above the bar. All lighting elements emit 2,600 Kelvins, complemented by rechargeable Japanese table lights, creating a warm, cinematic glow. The material palette emphasizes honesty and natural finishes, including stone bar counters, white oak paneling, leather banquette upholstery, and wool rugs. The deliberate juxtaposition of warm and cool tones reinforces the duality of hard and soft, grand and humble, evident throughout the design. Lionel Ohayon personally led the design of this project, finding it a creatively cathartic and rewarding opportunity to shape New York City's landscape. He aimed for an expression that aligns with its location next to MoMA, showcasing exuberance with mature restraint, moving away from what he perceived as a "Brooklyn-ification" of Manhattan's design aesthetic. ICrave's extensive experience in hospitality design, spanning over 20 years, allowed them to create a restaurant interior that honors its cuisine without resorting to pastiche, understands its contextual importance, and is as delightful as the food it serves. #RestaurantDesign #InteriorDesign #MidtownManhattan #ICrave #FineDining #ArchitecturalSculpture #LightingDesign #AsianFusion #LuxuryHospitality

The Park Hyatt Beaver Creek celebrated its 30th anniversary with a significant top-to-bottom renovation of its lobby and bar areas, aiming to transform these spaces into a luxurious, yet welcoming, mountainside home environment. Premier Project Management, a Dallas-based hospitality-project-management firm, spearheaded the design updates. The objective was to create a residential and inviting 'living room' atmosphere for guests. Key elements of the renovation included the installation of a dramatic new chandelier featuring 175 hanging pendants, a faux fireplace surrounded by a cantilevered, live-edge wood bench to draw guests in, and two additional fireplaces in the bar area to encourage social interaction during après-ski. The design incorporated practical changes such as relocating the reception desk to include chairs for guest comfort during check-in. Lighting was given significant attention, with a dimming system implemented to adjust brightness throughout the day, enhancing the mood and functionality of the space. A central bar was designed to function like a kitchen island, acting as a natural gathering point, with all equipment, glassware, and bottles concealed to maintain the pristine mountain views. The entire renovation was guided by the principle of creating a luxurious and authentic mountain-style experience. The designers from Premier Project Management shared several tips for individuals to incorporate similar elegant mountain styles into their own homes. One suggestion involves utilizing dark colors strategically. The existing knotty pine walls in the lobby were re-stained with a layered black and brown finish, effectively transforming the space without requiring extensive costs. This darker coloring was also applied to trim and the ceiling to frame the room's focal point, the mountain view, guiding the eye without overwhelming the space. This technique demonstrates how darker tones can enhance and define architectural features. Another design tip emphasized enlivening neutral color palettes through colorful pillows. The designers encouraged personalization by suggesting individuals craft their own pillows from vintage or specialty textiles or add appliqués and trims to store-bought options. This approach allows for easy and cost-effective changes to a room's aesthetic. Selective decoration was also highlighted as crucial; shelves were intentionally left partially empty or filled with thoughtful, context-matching accessories to create a meaningful and curated collection rather than a cluttered display. This approach focuses on quality over quantity, making chosen items stand out. Effective lighting was presented as a key mood-setting element. The renovation used LED lights at the back of metal-framed floating shelves to create a glowing effect, a technique that can be replicated at home with LED tape lighting. The article also advised mixing various metals and materials, specifically mentioning antique brass accents used throughout the Park Hyatt’s lobby, chandelier, fireplaces, and on furniture elements like bar stool legs and table lamps. The importance of deliberate mixing was stressed, ensuring balance so that no single material overwhelms the design. Lastly, the article pointed out that changing a light fixture can drastically alter a room's overall feel, citing the replacement of an antler chandelier with a modern, art-inspired canopy designed to evoke falling ice crystals, complementing the surrounding landscape and providing an energy-efficient solution. #HotelRenovation #LuxuryDesign #MountainStyle #InteriorDesignTips #HomeDecoration #LightingDesign #ColorPalette #ResidentialDesign