Travel
Hostel La Bueno Vida, Mexico
The Holiday Inn just got owned. Just sayin’. I mean, how can the mediocre, vanilla chain possibly compete with a bubblegum pink faceted façade like the one that graces Mexico City’s Hostel La Buena Vida?! They can’t. It’s just too much awesomeness per square foot. The name of the suhweet residential development says it all. We’ll provide the translation for all of you Español-challenged amigos: Hostel La Buena Vida = The Good Life Hostel. And good it is. In a ‘hood with a homogenous architectural style, the hostel definitely stands out like a sore thumb (painted neon pink). ARCO Architectura Contemporanea’s team used repeating geometric shapes in the façade, paying homage to the Mexican-candy-wrapper-esque vibe, then complimented the bold choice with a serene ipe wood lattice and set it off with a neon sign. Any contemporary urban traveler would be lucky to relax in this lounge-tastic Mexican City gem.
Attrap’Rêves Bubble Hotel, France
Maybe you have, or maybe you haven’t seen this little family of bubble rooms – but now, after the recent opening of two hotels in France, you can make one of these translucent huts yours for the night! Attrap’Rêves in Bouches-du-Rhone (near Marseille) and Sky River outside of Loir-et-Cher are the two hotels that let you sleep under the stars. The concept came from French designer Pierre Stéphane, who wanted to create a Eco-friendly space, in that once the bubble is folded up, nature remains the intact.
The bubbles are small and cozy, about 13 feet in diameter. Some are fully transparent, while others allow a little more privacy and are half opaque. Now, let’s be straight with one another, if you are looking to be pampered at the Ritz, these bubbles might not be for you. But if you want to live an unforgettable adventurous experience, immersed in nature, get to France! Who knows, you might wake up from that alarming dream with a bear staring you straight in the face….lets just all cross our fingers that this plastic bubble withstands bear claws.
Caro Hotel, Spain
Valencia’s Caro Hotel occupies a building that dates back 2,000 years. Experiencing the hotel is like pulling back layers of history – a mosaic Valencia founding of Roman from the second century BC, a staircase from the early 19th century, an Arab city wall in the hotel’s cafe from XII Century, and several Gothic arches and nineteenth-century construction details, all in one place.
The team behind Caro approached Francesc Rifé, the principal at Barcelona based design firm Francesc Rifé Studio, to come in and streamline the establishment. Caro wanted Rife, who is known for his warm, yet contemporary style, to add architectural elements to the building that reflect modern design. Creating these elements that represent the moment is another way to continue these historical layers of the building, a way to experience the past, and the present, at the same time.
Rife divided the hotel up into 26 suites, each room is designed different from one another. One room is in the attic, where rustic wood beams slant down creating low ceilings, while other suites have high ceilings with grand murals and crown moldings. A glass floor was added into the hotel to allow light to travel from the sunroof to floors below, Rife designed a cool moss garden that grows on one of the floors – a small, yet unforgettable design feature within the hotel.
(Photography: Caro Hotel)
Long Beach Hotel, Mauritius
As hotels on the Eastern Coast of Mauritius are building up, nothing quite fits the atmosphere, amenities, and aesthetics of the new Long Beach Hotel. The credit of the stunning look of the lodge goes to Keith Interior Design, a seasoned vet when it comes to hospitality design, with the help of their partners at M2K Architecture.
The hotel lobby is massive in size, with ceiling heights reaching nearly 27 feet high! Tall wooden blinds open up, which allows for an abundant amount of fresh air to roll through the arriving space. The entrance even has a honed wood bridge with a matching door that opens and doubles as an awning. Be sure to spread out with your luggage upon arrival in the elongated lobby and enjoy the six-foot custom metal and gem light fixtures that dangle from the ceiling.
The arrangement of the 255 room hotel is designed on a crescent, so each room has a full view of the ocean! The chic contemporary designs of the rooms blend together open-air and indoor living as woods, whites, corals, and green tones are used to create a refreshing, easy-on-the-eye suite; a place easy to relax.
Each public space has its own styling and mood; the different languages were created by using different pieces of furniture. The teen center is modern and chic with bubble chairs, and minimalistic design elements. Dining in the family restaurant is like snacking on a rustic beach, while the fine-dining restaurant goes for a warm contemporary feel.
Although each public space is designed to give a unique experience, the architect noted that they “kept a strong link between the different areas by using dominant neutral tones, natural stones, raw timber and crisply finished aluminum.”
The design of the Long Beach Hotel is what makes it a successful luxury resort-meets-family vacations type property, but it’s the inviting architecture and refreshing vibe of the lobby that ‘had us at hello.’ Oh – and let’s not forget to mention the infinity pool over looking the white sanded beach, but I don’t think we need to explain the awesome factor in that!
(Photographs: Sun Resort Hotels)
W Hotel Paris Opera
In part of a massively cool expansion initiative, the W Hotels has opened it’s super chic new Paris property, today, yes, literally today! As we are drafting this article, dashingly stylish doorman are rolling out the red carpet for the elite jet setters who frequent W establishments around the world. The 91 room hotel has taken over a historical 1870 building just steps away from the Garnier Opéra House.
Just because the W community is expanding, doesn’t mean they leave their identity at the door as the trot from spot to spot. You can still expect high design mixed with modern technology. Because in Paris, otherwise known as the city of lights, the design team Rockwell Group Europe in collaboration with W Global Brand Design decided to bring lighting features into the space in integral ways. An awesome example being the curvacious black wall that whips around the bar and into the hotel’s restaurant. The high gloss black partition has tiny holes in it and are back lit to create a vibrant space, especially for the night owls.
The hotel has a bold contrasting color palette of black, red, and white, but the seemingly modern palette fits perfectly inside the traditional design elements. Mirrored walls grace Arola, the hotel’s restaurant, which are etched with seemingly ancient symbols and characters. While a red, white, and black, spiral stair case elegantly reaches up the five floor hotel. If you are in, or passing though Paris W, be sure to reserve the super luxe WOW Suite, with a name like that, disappointment is nearly impossible.
The Brücke 49 Hotel, Switzerland
“Shit, what an old ugly house filled with stinking leftovers” was the response from Thomas Schacht, Co-owner of Vals newest boutique B&B The Brücke 49, when we asked him what his thoughts were when he first set his eyes on the hotel building. To be honest, when he showed us the “before” images of the ramshackle old structure we couldn’t help but agree. It only took Schacht and his wife Ruth six months to scrap nearly 3,000 cubic feet of “rubbish,” strip it down to its original form, and re-design the space. Thomas admitted that it was Ruth who kept spirits high with her positive attitude during the massive redevelopment project of the charming B&B.
The Brücke 49 just opened its doors last month and has a fantastic group of people backing the B&B. Iain Ainsworth, founder of the White Line Hotel Group, is one of their fans, and he and his team represent the Brücke 49. Ainsworth discovered the gem that is Brücke 49 while his colleagues were in the area spelunking for cool hotels. He noted, “There are some fabulous examples of Swiss design in Vals.” And quicker than you could make a cup of instant Swiss Miss, a local directed them to the newest B&B in town where they ended up at wooden door of the Brücke 49.
We have to admit, the Schacht’s story makes us just a tad jealous. The pair ditched their full time jobs working for huge corporations and moved to Vals, a quaint, utopian ski town in Switzerland, to run a cozy bed and breakfast. Thomas explained that in Vals, “Everything is working perfectly, combined with nature and everything else Switzerland has to offer. Here everything, even though the village has no more than 1000 inhabitants. From kindergarten, schools, pubic transport, the community. You have the best water coming out of the mountain for free. You have waterpower so energy doesn’t cost much. You have ‘World Heritage’ nature all around you. You have world-class design (the Therme by Peter Zumthor). You have honest, hardworking people you can trust and whom we couldn’t have re-made the house in six months without”
Once the house was stripped bare, the two began to formulate their design. They created a storyboard and a room plan, with a description of each, and a precise collage of how they envisioned the final look and feel of the hotel. This became their road map through the design process. “Ruth and I discussed every little detail and researched it on exhibitions, factory visits and trips to Milan, London, and Copenhagen,” Thomas explained. They wanted the Brücke 49 to feel like a home away from home. The pair have always been fascinated with the simple things in life and wanted that to be manifested within the space.
Both the interior and exterior needed quite a makeover. The outside of the home was revamped from a cream color to a deep grey blue color with white shutters. The door was refurbished, sconces were added, and white Brücke 49 graphics were painted onto the facade.
The interiors began to fill with solid wood flooring, white paneled walls, handmade furniture, potted plants, and unique artwork scattered throughout the hotel.
Each piece of furniture is handmade (yes, you read that right), and nothing you will find at the Brücke 49 is mass produced. Every item in view echoes with a lasting quality and are all made from solid materials. Even the porcelain on the shelves is hand-painted. Thomas and Ruth wanted furniture that would last for years without “looking sad or getting sick of them.”
The two are constantly searching for new pieces as they have a habit of selling the hotel furniture to inquiring guests. It makes he B&B a bit of a novelty, constantly evolving at the whim of both it’s curators and guests. “That means Brücke 49 is also a showroom. We give advice. We help people if they want to buy a piece of furniture or whatever we have in the house. In principle everything can be bought.” Thomas explained.
For the time being we can all live vicariously through Ruth and Thomas, but there’s always the option to join them! If you plan to venture to Vals make sure you visit our friends at the Brücke 49. And don’t forget to bring us back a cool furniture piece! (Obvs)
(Photography: Brucke 49)
The New Saguaro Hotel, Palm Springs
Taking color cues from the indigenous flowers of the desert region, the new Saguaro property is in full bloom. Opening in Palm Springs in February, the bold design elements pack a punch amidst the balmy backdrop of palms. The 249-room hotel was conceptualized with the idea of reflecting the colorful, vibrant spirit of the Southwest, and comes on the heels of The Saguaro Scottsdale that opened its doors in November 2011. The punchy palette can be attributed to New York-based Stamberg Aferiat Architecture, who masterfully transformed the throwback three-story structure from the 70’s into a bright, buzzing hotel, alive with color.
(Photography Provided By: Saguaro)
Berghotel Muottas Muragl, Switzerland
In Switzerland, the 104 year old Berghotel Muottas Muragl has been completely renovated! The transformation called for the hotel to double in size, but with that, it was a massive goal of the architects and the hotel owners, Romantik Hotels, to reduce the energy consumption and create the first “plus-energy” hotel in the Alps. “This was achieved by insulating the building to be in sync with the latest insulation standards (Swiss “Minergie” ecological label) and by generating renewable energy from five different sources,” the architects explained. The post renovation energy strategy led to an impressive 64% decrease in energy consumption!
At 8,000 feet above sea level, hotel guests can only arrive two ways, by helicopter, or by one tram that goes from the village below to the hotel; making this an exclusive and private escape for ski bums around the world. An incredible feature of the hotel is the outdoor terrace, where you can sip you mimosas while adoring the snow capped peaks.
When faced with the design, the architects chose quality over quantity as they created 16 modern yet comfortable suites. The rooms are covered in local Swiss stone pine and walnut, and are complemented with plaid curtains, stand alone bath tubs, and stone sinks. Each of the 16 suites has a breathtaking view of the Alps, so don’t worry, you wont travel all the way to Switzerland and get stuck with the view over looking the parking garage!
(Photography: Berghotel Muottas Muragl)
The LOLA Hotel, New York City
As the old saying goes: out with the old, and in with the new. What was once Manhattan’s Hotel Thirty Thirty, in Midtown, is now the home of the savvy and stylish LOLA Hotel. A multi-million dollar renovation has been orchestrated by Highgate Hotel, with the design help of famed photographer Matthew Rolston. We caught up with Rolston in Hollywood last spring for a walk through of his newest hotel of the time, The Redbury. Rolston expressed his desire to make his designs “appeal to a young, creative crowd and for the design experience to feel ‘theatrical’, a little bit like actually being in one of my photographs or music videos.”
While constructing the design, Rolston worked closely with Highgate’s go-to designer Susan Jaques. Conceptually, Jaques “embraces a design aesthetic that is inspired by old Hollywood glamour and iconic femme fatales,” an idea which manifests itself into the sultry and moody design of the Lobby, which she spearheaded.
The property, originally built in 1903, carried a unique history. ” A respectable women’s residence, the property known as the Martha Washington played host to screen starlets Louise Brooks and Veronica Lake among other fashion forward women ahead of their time, each eager to take Manhattan by storm. The property’s unique history informed the redesign of LOLA.”
“My vision for the hotel lobby marries its storied history with a glamorous design aesthetic evocative of the modern day femme fatale,” expressed designer Susan Jaques. “LOLA, a playful and provocative character that I created to embody the property’s personality, served as inspiration for the redesign that Matthew and I worked together to achieve.”
Employing a bold amethyst color palette with smoky charcoal hues, eye-catching fabrics and strong, statement pieces, Jaques designed the captivating lobby lounge appointed with one-of-a-kind velvet-mohair chairs, leather half-moon shaped sofas and an oversized marble topped coffee table. Renowned for his innovative use of light, Rolston chose a striking Jason Miller chandelier for the hotel’s vestibule and created a spectacular “Icon” chandelier installation for the lobby lounge using over eighty individual Tom Dixon globe fixtures.
(Photographs: Courtesy of Hotel Lola)
Historic Brewery Transformed Into A Spa
Zurich’s history runs deep – one of its most important industrial monuments, the Hürlimann Brewery, has been converted into an impressive spa called Thermalbad. The hundred-year-old vaulted architectural elements below ground have been preserved, and re-vamped into baths where guests can swim in and out of the old brewery. The rooftop has been converted into a dramatic angular shaped swimming pool with warm temperatures reaching up to 106 degrees, and views of the city spanning miles. If you are traveling through, or to Zurich, make sure to experience the rooftop splendor and underground aquatics of the Thermalbad!
Born To Inspire
Warning: You’re stomach may drop! Watching this video is like being on a captivating roller coaster where you want to scream, and are completely inspired at the same time. “I Believe I Can Fly” is a trailer for a documentary by the French director Sébastien Montaz-Rosset. Visually the video captures the exploration of climbing, tightrope walking, and cliff jumping, but emotionally brings you to a place where fear, risk, and inspiration all harbor in the same place.
There is a moment in the video where one of the jumpers admits he is scared, this comes as a shock to his friend who perceives him as brave and fearless. But his fears won’t stop him, after his confession, he jogs towards the edge of the Norwegian cliff and he jumps. Knstrct is a publication which aims to inspire it’s viewers and tell stories of tremendously talented people. Today we are left completely inspired!
I Believe I can Fly ( flight of the frenchies). Trailer from sebastien montaz-rosset on Vimeo.
Weekly Roundup: Fall & Winter Destinations
With fall having arrived and winter quickly approaching it’s prime time to think about where you’ll escape the elements. Who wouldn’t want to jet off to a relaxing destination and hunker down with some hot cocoa to embrace the bitter winter chill?! This week’s roundup is a compilation of the best getaway spots that fall and winter have to offer. We’re sending you off to mountain and lakeside locales and even to one winter retreat on an island no less! Don’t forget to pack a sweater and scarf – it can get chilly up there. Brrrr!
Mountain Villa
Lakeside Retreat | Huntsville, Ontario
Rolling Huts Hotel | Washington, USA
Farrar Mountain Retreat | Park City Utah
Lake Manyara Lodge | Lake Manyara National Park, northern Tanzania
Bled Island | Slovenia
The Glass House
Amankora Retreat | Kingdom of Bhutan
Das Regina Hotel | Austria
Whitepod Hotel | Switzerland
Katikies Hotel | Santorini
Nestled into the Santorini mountainside, along the main thoroughfare of central Oia, sits Katikies Hotel. The luxury boutique hotel, which has been one of the hottest places to vacation in the village, has recently been renovated. The new contemporary decor mixed with the preserved Aegean architecture gives Katikie visitors the best of both worlds. The hotel blends fantastical landscape with endless stairs and a jaw dropping infinity pool which is tucked into the white mountain. Stark-white rooms arranged from hulled-caves nestled in the mountainside become the quintessential place for relaxation and escape! Furnishings in the suites mix local antiques with updated beds and loungers upholstered in bright stripes and bold colors. Many of the suites have Jacuzzi tubs, huge living rooms, and dining rooms for entertaining small parties. Curious hotel residents eventually find their way to the hotel’s in-house library and candlelit restaurant with cozy balcony home to evening dinners and breath taking views!
(Images By: Katikies Hotels)
Weinfeld Designs The New Fasano Hotel
Fasano’s first foray outside of his native Brazil comes in the form of an exotic, picturesque escape nestled into the countryside of Punta del Este, Uruguay. Fasano Las Piedras has become a destination for Brazilian celebs and supermodels and boasts a polo field, private villas, and a beach club among other amenities.
Set inland among a rural landscape dotted with pine trees, grassy dunes and fleeting ocean views, the luxury hotel is a marriage of country and sea. Designed by Isay Weinfeld the lobby features huge slabs of exposed granite and reclaimed ceiling beams set against a backdrop of modern mission style décor and lux Italian furnishings. The twenty bungalows and twelve suites offer a calming, neutral palette of earth tone walls, wood paneling and supple, leather touches. It’s the perfect oasis for a chic, active crowd that fancies melding sport with glamour. They’ve got their pick from polo grounds, horizon pool, spa, equestrian center and boathouse. What’s not to like?
(Photography Credits: FG + SG – Fotografia de Arquitectura)
House Of Purple Hotel
Purple has always been a haut color, originally associated with royalty and nobility when Tyrian purple was only affordable to the elite classes. House Of Purple continues the tradition, providing a lavish home-away-from home in Seoul’s affluent gangnam-gu neighborhood for the purple card holders of South Korea’s leading credit card company, Hyundai Card.
Designed by …staat, an international creative agency based in Amsterdam, the exclusive space breathes elegance and luxury, while simultaneously maintaining an intentionally homey vibe. “Everything in House of the Purple is personally curated. Every object is a work of art. Designed to evoke the senses. Stimulate the curious mind. And instill a sense of taste. Discerning taste. Because less is more.”
The shell of the spacious 300 sqm hotel is a minimalistic concrete structure, the perfect backdrop for a lavish interior. Pull back the plush velour curtains at the entrance of the ‘members only’ hotel and you’ll be greeted by glossy, black, wood floors and an expansive living room dotted with vintage furniture pieces and chic antique trophies that leads out to a secluded terrace with a lush vertical garden. We have to admit, we’re green purple with envy.
(Images Provided by House Of Purple)
New York’s New Hotel Americano
New York City is in an ever-evolving, constant state of gentrification with dilapidated buildings crumbling and new ones springing up in their place. Hôtel Americano’s parking-garage-turned-
M18, Grupo’s impressive public relations team, took us on a private tour of the hotel months back prior to completion, and we have to say, we were impressed. Mexican architect Enrique Norten transformed the façade of the former parking garage into an impressive glass structure incased in metal mesh, capturing the industrial zeitgeist of the neighborhood.
An exterior-facing, glass-encased elevator shuttles guests between the street-level restaurant and rooftop terrace. After walking through the massive doors we were welcomed not by a hotel lobby, but instead by a tastefully, minimalistic concrete cafe. The massive marble bar, unique modern furniture and imaginative light fixtures set the stage for the rest of the hotel experience
Peeking through the glass near the back of the hotel is an extension to the café – an elevated terrace – the perfect place to sip a latte under an enormously lush, plant-packed, living wall. The fantastic M18 publicist, Michael Tavani – our personal tour guide for the day, led us up to the rooftop where we were wowed with the architectural elements, pool and the expansive view of the Hudson River.
The rooftop restaurant and bar La Piscine is the perfect locale for after work libations, featuring Mediterranean fare in the summer and transitioning to an Argentinian menu in the winter. Beyond the rooftop restaurant is a cozy pool that doubles as a Jacuzzi during colder seasons.
To furnish the 56 guest rooms and suites Grupo enlisted Paris-based interior designer Arnaud Montigny, famous for his work on the Paris shop, Colette. Montigny took a warm and simplistic approach to the suites, using woods, white swashes and fireplaces to create a comfortable, yet minimalistic atmosphere.
The low, platform beds are placed inside large wooden cubbies creating an experience exclusive to the Hotel Americano.
Tucked under it all, hidden in Americano’s basement is the bar El Privado. The design team continued the brick theme on the walls but glammed it up with a gold ceiling. The venue has slight futuristic characteristics with its curved walls and uber modern white furniture.
After visiting the hotel it is clear that Grupo understands hospitality, and that they plan on creating a sanctuary for both out-of-towners and locals alike.
(Photographs Provided By Grupo Habita Via M18)
The House Hotel
Istanbul’s new House Hotel provides historical glamour with contemporary design! One of our design favorites, Autoban, was brought on to redesign the historical building that overlooks the Bosphorus River, into a 23 room luxury boutique hotel. Autoban provided some insight explaining that the ”concept was to create a comfortable, modern luxurious world reflecting classic traces of it’s era.” To establish this concept, Autoban decided to create this space using it’s signature material pallet, marble, brass, oak, and walnut. The team integrated these materials into the hotel, without “over designing” the space, and keeping the integrity of the past. Original wall panels and ceiling moldings remained intact while Autoban added interesting features to the historical elements such as contemporary lighting fixtures, mirrors, and unexpectedly scattered decorative trinkets.
(Photography Credits: Ali Bekman)
The Cube Travels Through Europe
Like the ever-morphing Rubik’s cube, The Cube Pavilion is constantly in motion. Falling into the category of experimental architecture, it serves as a traveling restaurant, popping up in unexpected and exotic locations throughout Europe. Electrolux teamed up with Park Associati to create the traveling installment that kicked of its little road trip in Brussels, perched atop the Parc du Cinquantenaire, near the headquarters’ of the European Community.
The Cube will roam freely from sandy beaches to rocky mountaintops dishing up lunch and dinner in an intimate setting, while extending it’s stay in place no longer than twelve weeks. Lightweight materials and a ‘pop-up’ fabrication allows The Cube to be seamlessly transferred from one locale to another. Park chose to implement white and silver aluminum accents to allow the stricture to pop amidst rustic European settings.
To align with the brand and identity of Electrolux The Cube uses technologically innovative materials, eco-sustainability and energy saving as well as enabling constant re-use. Even the interiors can morph from a restaurant to a full-service lounge. The large dining table retracts into the ceiling, allowing for modular lounge furniture to take its place, giving a nod to its Rubik’s cube-like nature. So we have to ask, where would you love to see The Cube pop up next?
[Photograph Credits: Carol Kohen + Andrea Martiradonna]
Concept Super Yacht To Be Built
Last year we reported on the Strand Craft 122 – a concept super yacht design by Eduard Gray. Today, we have received word that the beautiful yacht is going to be brought to life!! Gray selected Ned Ship Group, who will build the design to the highest possible standards! This news puts a big smile on our faces! Why? because in the world of transportation design it is rare to see a luxurious concept yacht, such as the Strand Craft 122, come to life because of the excessive amount of time and capital needed for testing and building.
The Strand Craft will be build in light weight composite materials such as Epoxy and Carbon, which Ned Ship Group specializes in. The shipyard where the yacht will be built is in Antalya, Turkey; all work will be completed on site. The yacht will come fully equipped with it’s own custom super sports car which will be able to drive from the dock, directly onto the boat through an electronically operated portal which opens and closes.
This is a high performance, streamlined, 38 meter, open, super yacht has a total of over 14,000 horsepower and can break speeds over 50 knots. It consists of four spacious bedrooms, a grand stateroom, heads, reception, salon, and generous crew cabins. The chocolate colored interior is plush, detailed, and tailored to perfection! It might be hard to get ‘lost at sea’ when there are 52? LED TV’s and a Bang Olufson sound system in all rooms!
Philippe Starck Designs La Co(o)rniche Hotel
“One of the strongest, most beautiful, most poetic, most surreal, and most powerful places in nature.” This is how Philippe Starck sums up La Co(o)rniche Hotel in only a few words. The famed designer became tremendously familiar with this key landmark in France’s Pilat-Plage district as he was selected to breathe new life into the establishment.
The hotel prides itself on it’s mystically beautiful location and it’s aristocratic history. The hotel was built in 1930, “suspended between sea and sky, nestling between sand and pines,” where it was the main attraction for princes, grand dukes and aristocratic gentlemen. The hotel was the vision of an early settler and developer, Louis Gaume, who’s family still operates the hotel today.
Through the years the hotel has been a great escape for many but was in need of a special new touch to keep it’s soul alive. The Gaume family joined forces with William Téchoueyres; whom together brought on Mr. Starck to be responsible for the design of the hotel.
Starck took inspiration from the natural seas and surrounding sands along with the local French people. The designer explained: “through the meeting of scenery and nature beyond the grandiose, an old house which is the very symbol of the region and a block of life embodied in William Téchoueyres.” (Starck has described Téchoueyres as a “burst of laughter,” which resonates with him as inspiration for the establishment’s refurbishment).
The large, traditional Neo-Basque house is a trusting characteristic of the regional style which was introduced by Louis Gaume. Leading up to the house is a long patio made up of mismatched cement tiles woven together like an elaborate Persian rug. Once through the doors you are greeted by the hotel lobby which has been preserved intact. “Dark wood, frescoes and period furniture tells us of the friendly ghosts of times past, gallants and gentlemen, the leading stars of cinema, painters, writers and a crowd of anonymous faces, all of whom shared the rare experience of time spent here.”
To contrast the preserved lobby, Starck introduced “intelligent objects, for intelligent people, who come to this intelligent place”, which consist of quirky little sculptures and intriguing trinkets.
The refurbishment is said to be based around poetic ruggedness. With a large Murano glass chandelier by French artist Aristide Najean, and personal collages, photographs, and travel journals left by past visitors are pasted onto the bright yellow walls, all creating an atmosphere which poetically reflects the history.
The hotel rooms are designed to be refreshing and surreal. White is used as the dominant color with long floor to ceiling white sheer curtains which blow with the natural breezes. The furniture placement is indicative of Starck’s style, Most beds are boldly placed in the center of the room with the desks bucked up to the back of them. The room’s contain polished sculptures, each relevant to the village and it’s people.
(Photographs Provided By Stark Network)
Behind The Redbury Hotel With Matthew Rolston
“Romantic. Soulful. Imperfect. Funky. The ultimate hangout for the young and creative.” Creative director Matthew Rolston describes his newest creative endeavor, the Redbury Hotel. Rolston aspired to curate a space that would “appeal to a young, creative crowd and for the design experience to feel ‘theatrical’, a little bit like actually being in one of my photographs or music videos.”
This spring we had the pleasure of taking a tour of the Redbury from famed photographer Matthew Rolston himself. We got a sneak peek into a few of the divinely designed rooms that comprise the 57 room boutique hotel. Swathed in gorgeous photography, eclectic collections of pinned butterflies, pleated silk lampshades, and ‘moss’ fringe trimmings, there is an abundance of whimsical, theatrical elements that breathe life throughout the space. The hotel buzzes with a beautiful symphony of colors and textures, elaborate paisley wallpapers, distressed leathers and linens, ‘antique’ style cotton velvets, and vintage Turkish and Persian carpets. Walking though the space you can’t help but feel a relaxed, understated sense comfort and sophistication, with unsuspecting surprises of edgy elegance, old Hollywood glamour, and bohemian flair.
Rolston reflects on the unique name that inspired the hotel on Hollywood and Vine. “The naming of the property is its most powerful branding device. It’s called The Redbury for a number of reasons. First, because the building I “inherited” was painted scarlet red. Secondly, because the word Redbury, to me, is reminiscent of ‘Ashbury’, as in Haight-Ashbury, thereby evoking images of a hippie-era bohemian eclecticism. Also, I believe, it speaks to the brand’s target audience, namely the young, the creative, the musically-oriented.”
In discussing his depth of involvement Rolson explains, “This project was acquired by Sam Nazarian (Los Angeles-based developer and head of SBE Entertainment) from its original developer in a nearly completed state. Mr. Nazarian wanted to put his own stamp on the place. My assignment was to work with as much of the existing conditions as possible, or at least adapt to them. He asked me to review every aspect, from naming to brand positioning, color codes to employee costumes, literally every aspect – from the ‘landscape’ to the ‘soundscape’ to the ‘scentscape’ to the ‘fire escape’.”
In reflecting on his inspiration behind his decadent designs, Rolston elaborates, “The ambiance is meant to convey the warmth of a townhouse, with a touch of Rock-n-Roll cool and a sense of Hollywood history. It is, after all, at the famous intersection of Hollywood and Vine, – directly across the street from the iconic Capitol Records building. Again, more like a townhouse than a typical hotel. We wanted guests to feel comfortable, relaxed, and at home, but also convey an exciting sense of destination.”
A photographer first and foremost, Rolston took the utmost care and consideration when creating the lighting scheme. “Light quality is very important to me. The hotel, hopefully, exudes a warm, seductive, and inviting atmosphere, and that is supported by the lighting design. From signature wall size back-lit photo murals, to illuminated walls themselves. A rich mixture of decorative lighting, especially chandeliers, pendants, and sconces, throughout. Light sources range from fluorescent to halogen, LED and even Edison-type filament bulbs, all in warm-toned color balances.”
We also had the pleasure of dining at Cleo, the hotel’s restaurant, enjoying a sumptuous spread of hummus, beef cheek tagine, grilled octopus, and lamb kebabs. And we must admit we enjoyed a few Honey Citrus Sidecars, an utterly intoxicating (both figuratively and literally!) blend of whiskey, Cointreau, crushed mint, yuzu juice and agave nectar. A must if you’re stopping by Cleo.
Rolston shares his inspiration for creating the restaurant’s aesthetic. “Cleo”, the name of the restaurant in the hotel, was inspired by a famous photograph of Hollywood actress Theda Bara as Cleopatra from the 1917 film. There’s a 10-foot by 10-foot backlit photo mural of this image that serves as a kind of “muse” for the restaurant and stands at its entrance as a visual icon. I helped name the restaurant, and created brand visioning for every element… from the logo to the tableware, even the candles. Every detail. The restaurant is very much a part of the fabric of the overall property experience, and yet it definitely has its own identity.” – Callie Griggs
(Imagery Provided By The Redburry)
The Nolitan Hotel
There is no denying Nolita is the next up-and-coming hood that chic Manhattanites are flocking to for swanky five star dining, underground clubs, posh music venues, and modern art boutiques. The excitement surrounding the opening of Nolita’s first luxury boutique hotel, The Nolitan, has been buzzing for months, and will reach a crescendo when the Nolitan will open its doors to the masses in just a few short days! A few months back, Knstrct reported on the unique branding of the hotel we were salivating to get a taste of just exactly how the interior design of the hotel would play out. Here we have the first images of the space designed by New York Based design firm Grzywinski+Pons.
Local, NYC based firm G+P benefited from being native inhabitants, familiar with the Nolita neighborhood and how to best incorporate the concept of the hotel into the community. The architecture team worked closely with Edmond Li, Owner of Veracity Development, executing his vision of “sharing The Nolitan with citizens of the world, while creating a hub for the neighborhood that year-round residents could enjoy. The Nolitan Hotel is both a luxury boutique property and a neighborhood place where everyone will feel at home.” The idea of bringing international travelers into the community has been a successful trend in New York City, similar concepts have succeeded at the Ace Hotel and The Standard Hotel, where neighbors are welcome to use the hotel facilities… even if just for a quick cup of joe.
G+P aimed to make The Nolitan a destination where guests feel pampered, comfortable and above all, at ease, with impeccable service that is friendly, not fussy. In order to achieve the concept created a sense of low-key luxury. Warm woods, leathers, and bear skin rugs were used in the entry lobby, complemented by long, family-style sofas for seating. While waiting, guests can enjoy a selection of reading material from the floor to ceiling bookcase that was curated by Phaidon Books.
The guest rooms are dressed with beautiful, wide-planked oak floors and concrete ceilings, with Corian accents in between. The rooms feature modern furniture with hues of grey, tan, and white. The architectural team capitalized on the views by providing some rooms with balconies and others floor to ceiling glass windows.
(Photographs Provided By The Nolitan)
La Maison Champs Elysees
Buzz has been circulating about the re-design and re-opening of La Maison Champs Elysees hotel for what seems like eons. The weight is over because knstrct is giving you a sneak peek into the Parisian establishment that has been cleverly revamped by Maison Martin Margiela. The hotel is composed of two historic buildings, one modern and one dating back to the second empire! MMM arrived on the scene and redesigned 17 guest suites, a restaurant, smoking room, bar, and reception area.
The interiors of the property meld stylistic elements of historical and contemporary design and juxtapose the two in a whimsical fashion. The lobby of the hotel highlights the refurbished old interior architectural pieces such as the molding, wall paneling, and railings, while amping up the wattage with colorful, futuristic furniture pieces.
The suites are separated by two concepts – day and night. Some suites disguise themselves in all black with unique lighting fixtures, creating a veiled, enigmatic atmosphere. Contrasting the dark suites are white rooms, bright as day, pure and harmonious.
‘New Hotel’ Opens In Athens
If you rewind back to 1958 in Athens, you’d find the classy Olympic Palace Hotel, a chunky modernist building that sat just steps away from Athen’s Syntagma Square. Fast forward 40 years and you’ll find Greek Cypriot art collector Dakis Joannou dreaming up ways to transform it into a gem!
Joannou, owner of Yes Hotel Group, was determined to salvage every old door and dingy mirror, breathing life back into the hotel, and titling it, New Hotel. Joannou brought in Brazilian design firm Campana to inject some Latin flair into the new establishment.
Humberto and Fernando Campana dressed the walls in layered, intersecting wood slabs, complemented the walls with chunky, wood chip furniture to, and introduced pops of bright color. The team polished up the existing marble flooring and stairwell, paying homage to the history of the building.
The hotel offers 79 suites, each room emulating one of three concepts stemming from Greek culture, “Postcards, amulets and shadow puppets are kept behind acrylic glass plates that float just above the walls, making guests feel like they are linked intrinsically with the art, instead of being its passive observers.
This theme pervades the bathrooms, where blocky, sharp-edged washbasins modeled after diamonds reach into spaces normally left unused.” Sculptures and unique creations are scattered throughout the hotel, making the entire space a living and breathing art piece.
(Photographs Provided By YES Hotels)
