Kettal has unveiled a new modular sofa, designed by Patricia Urquiola. The Insula sofa is an updated take on the traditional seating found in Arab majlis, where community members gather to discuss local matters, and receive and entertain guests. The design sees smooth forms combines with a roll backrest, which serves as the focal point. Modular in design, it consists of an orthogonal aluminium base, topped with comfortable cushions. The seat is available in two sizes, allowing for the use of different types of backrests. Like the original majils, the Insula sofa’s main purpose is to facilitat ..read more

Yotel is expanding its presence in Europe, with two new properties to be opened in Europe by June 2024. The openings mark a significant milestone for the group, particularly as it introduces its first YotelPad to the European market. The first of the two European properties to open its doors is Yotel Geneva Lake. The 237-property is equipped with the group’s signature technology and design features, including adjustable SmartBeds and sensory mood lighting. The new opening – comprising two interconnected glass buildings at different heights – has been designed to showcase expansive views at eve ..read more

Amtico has presented its Signature 36+ collection, a range of premium and safety luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring designed to suit commercial application.  Designed and manufactured in the UK, the flooring features a toughened 1mm upper wear layer, which provides all the resilience typical of Amtico’s flagship Signature collection.   Signature 36+ safety floors can be specified in flexible plank and tile sizes, plus laying patterns and over 150 woods, stones and colours. By utilising a unique manufacturing technique, Signature 36+ meets the BS EN 13845 Enhanced Slip Standard&nbs ..read more

Waterworks has unveiled Finot, a new bathroom and kitchen fittings collection developed in partnership with design studio Gachot.  Comprising over 50 styles, Finot is the second collaboration between the brands, following the creation of the Bond collection four years ago. The collection is inspired by sleek industrial design, tailored fashions and Modernist sculptures. Each element has been meticulously cast for precision and balance, with simple, pure shapes transformed into nuanced sculptural pieces that celebrate minimalism. The classic lever handle, for instance, showcases a subtle t ..read more

Studio Aisslinger has revealed the interiors of Hobo Helsinki, which has officially opened its doors.  A 183-key property from Strawberry Hotels, the new opening showcases a playful yet sophisticated design flair, with contrasting materials and an engaging colour palette throughout.  Design details include an eclectic mix of large-colour mirrors, locally-sourced terrazzo and large brick walls throughout. Expressive, colourful fabrics meanwhile are accompanied by bespoke landscape furniture, brought together in ways that demonstrate the design studio’s affinity for unique spatial arr ..read more

IHG is celebrating the launch of its inaugural Vignette Collection hotel in the UK – the first of 12 properties around the world set to join the brand in 2024.  With an identity anchored in Liverpool’s maritime heritage, The Halyard Liverpool, Vignette Collection is a 133-bedroom property in the city’s vibrant Ropewalks district, standing on the site of former 18th century rope-making warehouses. The hotel’s industrial interiors pay homage to the area’s dockland heritage, while pops of colours reflect the artists and musicians who gave Liverpool its second wave of global recogni ..read more

Nobu Hospitality has unveiled details of its 40th hotel, set to open its doors in 2026 in Vietnam. In collaboration with Viet Capital Real Estate (VCRE), the brand will open Nobu Hotel and Restaurant Ho Chi Minh in the heart of the city’s historic District 1.  The hotel will be situated on the upper floors of the 40-storey mixed-use complex, which is currently under construction. It will comprise 135 guestrooms and suites, a rooftop pool, fitness facilities and a Nobu restaurant on the seventh floor.  “We are thrilled to announce our second property in Vietnam and are eager to deepen ..read more

London-based CBE Capital has secured a senior bond loan facility for its club-deal investment into a new Six Senses hotel and branded residences.  The 95million EUR loan from Piraeus Bank in Athens will be put to use for the development of a new property in Porto Heli on the Greek mainland. The EUR 150m development, which is already being enlarged by the purchase of additional adjacent land, is equity-financed by a joint venture between CBE Capital, Golden Land Goutos, New York-based Taconic Capital Advisors and London-based Cedar Capital Partners. Opening in 2026 and located in two priva ..read more

Red Carnation Hotels has announced the opening of its first property in Scotland, 100 Princes Street.   Inspired by the adventures of the Scottish explorers who frequented the building in its former life as the headquarters of the Royal Overseas League, 100 Princes Street – located in Edinburgh – has been designed to take guests on a journey through Scotland’s rich cultural, historic and nautical legacy. The property’s design is the result of a partnership with the team behind Botswana’s Xigera Safari Lodge and Ireland’s Ashford Castle, spearheaded by Toni Tollman of Red Ca ..read more

IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of Kimpton Lisbon, the brand’s first property in the Portuguese capital.  Set to open its doors in early 2025, the opening will mark the second Kimpton to land in Portugal, following the signing of Kimpton Algarve São Rafael Atlántico in late 2023.   Signed under a franchise agreement with Real Hotel Group, the hotel will be reimagined by Rockwell Group as a representation of the Kimpton brand, with 141 guestrooms and public areas redesigned to take inspiration from the light and colours of the city. From design-forwar ..read more