Eric Leong has been immersed in hospitality design and project development roles since 2002 with a career spanning across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, China and Southeast Asia. He joined Minor Hotels in 2010 and is leading the Design & Technical Services department, supporting its rapid and exciting growth story from a regional player to one of the most prominent hospitality companies in the world. Playing a key role in Minor’s Hotels brands development, Eric is sharing with us the Design DNA of the renowned Anantara brand and exciting new development.
Do you mind sharing your professional story? How did you start working in Design for the Hospitality Industry?
Having been very fortunate to have parents that took me on numerous trips across the world when I was a child, even at that young age, I was always fascinated by the experience of travel. Yet somehow deep in these travel memories were all the different hotels and their environments.
Part of the fascination was always about the discoveries that one could make in and around the hotels – the delights and surprises on every corner, and the magic that seems to happen in five-star hotels where anything is possible – and much as this remains, a stay in a hotel is always an experience.
Seeing the intricate workings of a hotel from behind the scenes as an intern later opened my eyes even further and the seed was sown in wanting to have opportunities to create the perfect experiences for hotel guests.
I was able to learn early on in my career from some great industry leaders who have been part of the Technical Services team with Hyatt Hotels. The opportunity to join the core team of Minor Hotels really sold itself as I would be part of building and growing what was then still relatively early years for the very unique and exciting Anantara Hotels & Resorts brand which embodies the spirit of creating one of a kind, exceptional experiences at some truly breathtaking locations across the world.
What are your main responsibilities as Vice President – Design & Technical Services for Minor Group?
It is a very diverse and interesting role for my team and I, as we cover all aspects of project development from initial auditing of potential new projects, all the way through to the hotel pre-opening stages, making sure all the boxes are ticked and a smooth opening ensues. This includes initial project conceptualizations, assisting Owners and design teams in the project development process; setting up design and technical brand standards and a constant update of know-how and innovation/trends to apply to the next project.
One of my key responsibilities is to ensure that all of our projects live up to the promise of the brand experience and align with the vision of the owners. I often see my team’s role is to humanize designs so that all the guest spaces are functional yet, they have to create the emotional reactions associated with the brand. Equally as important, all spaces are functional for the operations team as well – front and back of house.
An example of this is with our exciting expansion of the Anantara brand in Europe in the next few years, we have been working closely with our European team to provide key design direction and support on these projects ensuring that the Anantara brand works well in Europe.
From the very first contact we have with the project, it is all about having and aligning the vision and applying our tried and tested experience and knowledge to deliver the best possible, class-leading hotel product.
Anantara Tozeur Resort – Guest Room, Sahara Deluxe Room
You have been leading the design and technical team for the renowned homegrown Anantara brand, can you please share more about the brand experience strategy implemented and your creative vision?
Anantara is a luxury hotel and resort brand where life is a journey – a never-ending adventure of exploration and indulgence. Derived from the Sanskrit word meaning “without end”, the word “Anantara” embraces the excitement of discovery and the vibrant energy of new horizons. Located in some of the world’s most exotic destinations, Anantara takes great pride in connecting guests to the natural beauty, indigenous culture and rich heritage of each location. Essentially, Anantara properties around the world offer a range of signature design and discovery concepts. At each property, we have always put our focus on creating unique brand signatures in having a grounded but luxurious experience that truly captures the indigenous travel and exploration spirit.
A lot of time is spent on detailing all the guest touchpoints and beyond – those that you may not see but feel. The subtle or prominent hints of the indigenous story, the connection to the location and the lay of the land – most often intangible qualities brought to life.
Ultimately we aim to create spaces that guests can feel at ease with themselves, spaces to unwind and take in the journey of their travels – connecting them to the location and themselves.
If you have to choose only one project you have been involved in, which one’s would it be and why?
It is honestly very difficult to choose one as I have been very fortunate in being involved in some spectacular projects across the world.
I would say the ones that have had the most impact on me are Anantara Kihavah, Maldives and Anantara Al Jabal Al Ahkdar, Oman as they really do represent extraordinary opportunities to create unique experiences. And I would like to think both properties turned out to be some of the best in class globally.
The reality was these were some really tough places for us to deliver the ultimate luxury hotels – the best locations often mean the most difficult to reach, often fighting the weather, logistics, engineering challenges. And in doing so, whilst we ensure we made the least impact on the environment. But the end results were worth it and I am glad to see that these hotels, they enable guests to experience these locations at their very best.
They were also very good lessons in showing that with hard work comes great rewards!
Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort – Courtyard
Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort – Dining by Design, Dianas Point
Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort – SPA Lobby
What are you working on at the moment, and do you have any upcoming projects or collaborations that you’re able to tell us about?
It is quite exciting at the moment. As I have mentioned, we have a great expansion pipeline with Anantara in Europe, whilst NH hotels are coming to the Eastern hemisphere. At the same time, we have also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for a potential partnership with Funyard Hotels & Resorts in China which will see greater expansion opportunities for us. All of which are keeping us happily busy.
With the Avani brand, which I have been part of from its inception, is seeing quite a strong expansion pipeline and we have some very exciting projects with eye-catching designs and details that I cannot wait to unveil. That’s all I can say right now….
What do you think are the biggest challenges and opportunities in your industry now?
I think the speed of change in terms of design, in terms of social habits, traveling patterns and guests’ needs from a hotel is altering the industry’s landscape in ways we have not seen before.
Being able to adapt and rise to these changes will be key. Technology, creating relevant spaces and experiences for the modern traveler, adjusting to and being part of the lifestyle changes we are seeing across all ages are some areas to focus on.
Sustainable practices have to be at the forefront of hotel design, and in fact, all aspects of life. I see that hotels always have an opportunity to be the heart of the community (After all, each hotel is very much a community in itself) and we do need to make every effort to make the changes that matter.
Anantara Guiyang Resort – Guest Room, Deluxe Pool View Room
Anantara Guiyang Resort – Lobby
Last, do you have any tips for aspiring Architects & Interior Designers?
Despite mentioning changes above, I recently saw one of the projects I worked on at the beginning of my career in a movie – and it was so good to see that it still looks the same, in a good way, the design is elegant, and it is still very much relevant and revered today. The facilities remain as they were when we cut the ribbon. It reminded me that good design is indeed timeless.
My advice would be that whilst it is important to be in tune with the times and to innovate, in designing hotels, one must always be mindful that hotels are set out to serve and delight its guests and the operation team for many years to come. The key fundamental elements in guest and service needs are just as important as the overall design style.
Design is inspirational so don’t be afraid the push the boundaries – but good design is one that always passes the test of time.
Anantara Kihavah Maldives – Villas
Anantara Kihavah Maldives – Villas Restaurant SEA – Underwater Dining
The 1st Annual LIV Hospitality Design Awards winners celebration will be streamed online at 2:00 PM GMT, on Saturday, June 26th!
The LIV Hospitality Design Awards celebrate quality Architectural ventures and Interior Design diversity, that shape the Hospitality industry today. The LIV Awards is an inclusive platform, pursuing exceptional projects within the “Living” and “Eating” spaces, from Co-living to Beach Resort, from Fine Dining restaurant to Pop up Bar.
The Jury panel is composed of 36 talented and experienced professionals, entrepreneurs, academics, and developers in the Hospitality Design field. They have selected the winners of the first edition of the LIV Hospitality Design Awards and shortlisted 54 projects, which received an average score of over 80/100 points and will be presented at the LIV Awards event.
The 1st Annual LIV Hospitality Design Awards winners celebration will be streamed online at 2:00PM GMT, on Saturday, June 26th!
The LIV Hospitality Design Awards celebrate quality Architectural ventures and Interior Design diversity, that shape the Hospitality industry today. The LIV Awards is an inclusive platform, pursuing exceptional projects within the “Living” and “Eating” spaces, from Co-living to Beach Resort, from Fine Dining restaurant to Pop up Bar.
The Jury panel is composed of 36 talented and experienced professionals, entrepreneurs, academics, and developers in the Hospitality Design field. They have selected the winners of the first edition of the LIV Hospitality Design Awards and shortlisted 54 projects, which received an average score of over 80/100 points and will be presented at the LIV Awards event.
Due to the extreme circumstances of COVID-19, the LIV Awards board has decided to host an online event; to congratulate all winners, revealed the 54 shortlisted projects, and announced the “Designers of the Year”:
The event will be streamed online via Facebook and YouTube, make sure to set up your alarm and follow us on social media. Let’s celebrate together the best of Hospitality Architecture & Interior Design!
Gerrick has been in the hospitality industry for over 20 years. Before founding Millé, he managed one of New Zealand’s most renowned & awarded hospitality design studios and owned four of his own hospitality venues. He has been involved in 100’s of hospitality interiors and operations, designing some of New Zealand’s most celebrated and iconic hospitality venues and has invaluable expertise in hospitality design, construction, and operations. He is sharing with the LIV Design Awards, his professional journey and love for Hospitality!
Can you tell us a bit about your background? Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Auckland, New Zealand. I spent 10 years living in Melbourne through my 20s.
What has inspired you to work in the Design field in Hospitality?
I’ve always loved the hospitality. I remember loving going to cafes with my mum as a small child. My first job was in a café at 14 and I continued to work in hospitality through university, before starting a café in my 20s and going on to open 4 venues of varying sizes.
Can you tell us more about Millé? What are your creative’s principles?
Having started out working in and then owning and operating hospitality venues, our design principles at Millé are very much focused around fundamental success factors for hospitality venues. We focus strongly on three key things:
1. The interior and exterior elements that affect our client’s success and desirability to their target market, such as street presence, customer experience, a unique point of difference etc. I believe that success in hospitality is not down to any one thing, it is all the 1%’s that you add up (lighting, music, signage, pricing, menu mix, service etc), to create an experience that your customers love.
2. We design to ensure staff efficiency. Wash stations are close to food and beverage passes, so staff walk in and out of kitchens with full hands, all elements of staff and customer flows are considered to ensure that labor costs are considered in all space planning decisions and efficiency maximized.
3. We focus on respecting our client’s capital. It is easy to design interiors that consume capital, but the hospitality industry is a tight-margin business, and by designing intelligently, we can set our clients up with a business that isn’t overcapitalized and has the foundations for success.
Do you have any ongoing ventures you can share with us?
We are currently designing 4x cafes, 3x dumpling shops, an Indonesian restaurant, a Smash Burger concept, 2x pizza concepts, a sushi shop, an Indian street food concept, 3x hotdog and hoagie venues, a bakery, and a fish & chip shop. We have our hands full!
If you have to choose only one project you have been involved in, which one’s would it be and why?
I can’t. I see Millé as a conduit for our client’s dreams. Each project we really go so deep with our clients, to discover their wants, needs, loves, hates, target market, values, passions and interests and really do everything we can to get into their vision and brand to bring that vision, image, or brand to life in a physical form. It’s a hugely rewarding process every time we see our client’s eyes light up throughout the design process and at the end when the venue is open
You own also four hospitality venues, does operate restaurants/bars have modified your sense of Design?
I previously operated them – they have been sold. Having owned venues, it gives us a deep intrinsic trust between Millé and our clients because we know what we’re talking about when it comes to operations. I know hospitality numbers, what the cost structure is and how difficult to operate they are, I know where the pain points are and I can discuss these confidently with clients and my team to try to reduce risks and increase chances of success in every design decision we make.
Do you mind sharing what are your passions outside of the design world?
Easy – my family.
Filly cafe
Filly Cafe
Umu Pizza
Wise Boys Burgers
Thomas Hansen worked with product and design development in the Hospitality contract market for more than 20 years. He has an extensive portfolio of International Hospitality projects and collaboration with renowned interior designers, global hotel groups, and stakeholders in the industry. Thomas is sharing his experience and love for Design.
Can you tell us a bit about your background? Where are you from?
I live in Denmark and work in Copenhagen, out of our Muuto Showroom & Office HQ. Since the beginning of my career, I have worked in lighting design and product design development for hotels.
What has inspired you to work in the Design and Hospitality industry?
I got to work on Hotel projects and product designs for hotels early on. I loved everything about it from day one. The culture of design developing together with the designers and hotels in the industry is very rewarding and I have been lucky to work on amazing projects by amazing designers.
You are currently the Head of Global Hospitality for MUUTO, what can you tell us about your company?
Muuto is a contemporary design brand rooted in the Scandinavian design tradition. We deliver high-quality designs across furniture, lighting, and accessories to both contract projects across all segments. Muuto is investing strongly into the Hospitality segment. With our design, quality, and strong brand culture, we are implementing new ways to be relevant in Hospitality.
What are your main responsibilities and how are you able to assist Interior Designers and Architects?
It is my role is to make Muuto a valuable partner for designers and Hotel chains globally.
By making Hospitality a focus segment, we are able to provide a new level of service for designers and hotels around the world. We are setting up a global unit of dedicated staff to interact and develop the projects with the designers, if and when needed.
What do you find “unique” about Scandinavian design?
I personally think Scandinavian design, as a concept, is very subjective these days. We are, of course, all standing on the shoulders of giants, but I also think you have to acknowledge how well the new Danish design companies have created their own place in the world.
The uniqueness for me is mainly how well our culture of design is integrated into many aspects of our society. That might be where we stand out a little in comparison.
Do you mind sharing what are your passions outside of the design world?
Other than my personal deeper interest in lighting design, I think I am like many of our colleagues in the business, addicted to travel and experiencing the world. Can’t wait to be allowed into the world again when the Covid19 situation is better.
Salvador Rivas graduated in Mexico, he has an M.A. in Architectural Design from the Bartlett, UCL, and is a Chartered Architect in the UK. He was based in the UK for 15 years where he collaborated as an associate partner at Foster+Partners on a wide range of projects including hotels and resorts for Banyan Tree, Oberoi, and Intercontinental Hotel Groups. Salvador is sharing his professional journey and the challenges of developing Hospitality projects in Mexico and the Latin America region.
Could you tell us a little about yourself?
I am a Mexican-British architect and designer; who has always been passionate about the effectiveness of natural systems, technical advancements and design performance. I have been fortunate to explore and test some of these ideas through research, development, and professional collaborations for more than twenty years. Since childhood, I had to deal with constant change, so I consider myself quite adaptable, an asset that is becoming extremely valuable in this constantly evolving world.
What inspired your love for architecture and interior design?
Initially, I wanted to become an airplane pilot as I was fascinated by how humans were able to be inspired by an act of nature like flying and turn it into efficient man-made aircraft. My interest then moved to automotive design, but since this specialty was not available in Mexico I decided to become an architect, thinking that I would be able to have a wider reach with the design of cities, architecture, interiors, and even products. It was the right decision, indeed, as I truly believe that as architects and designers, we have a responsibility to improve people´s lives through good design, regardless of project location, type, and scale.
What brought you to work mostly on Hospitality projects?
Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to collaborate on a series of different projects from performing arts centers to airport terminal buildings. But hospitality projects are the ones that I have certainly enjoyed the most as they are about creating new and different experiences for guests, visitors, and users alike. Each project should respond to its particular physical, environmental, and cultural context and this is where the uniqueness of a project can be achieved. There is also an important aspect of social responsibility, where hospitality projects must be more sustainable, efficient and adaptable to changing trends.
In 2017, you founded S*ARC, your architectural practice, when did you decide it was time to start your own company?
Since I graduated from architecture school, I had the idea that “one day”, after pursuing further postgraduate studies and professional experience, I would be able to start my own company. This became possible a few years ago with the opportunity to collaborate on the design and development of some interesting projects in Mexico and other countries.
The experience has been really fulfilling, leading to the foundation of another company in the UK, and it has been one of the most satisfying yet challenging periods of my professional life. As these initiatives follow their path, I am pleased to collaborate at HKS in my current role.
What is your priority when starting a new project? Is there something fundamental to your practice – your philosophy and your process?
Throughout the years, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with some of the most important architects and designers in Mexico and the UK. Each experience has provided me with a good insight into project development. For me, one of the key aspects when starting a project is dedicating sufficient time to truly understand the client, user, and site requirements to be able to develop a robust concept that could withstand future changes to any major variables. What is fundamental for me is that each project becomes a new opportunity to create a truly innovative, sustainable, and now more than ever, adaptable design solution.
What are the main challenges when developing Hospitality projects in Mexico and Central America in General?
Being such an important tourist destination, our region has experienced a significant influx of varied hospitality formulas throughout the years, across different typologies and categories. Recent challenges are related to the delivery of original, timeless, sustainable and efficient design solutions. The current global pandemic is posing even more challenges on how designers can effectively deal with new trends, program requirements, and adaptability of existing and new hospitality projects. As it has happened in other locations around the world, our regions will rapidly need to adapt to the challenges and changes resulting from our “new normal”.
You mentioned that your “focus is in hospitality projects relates to excellence in design, integration with their environment, and creating great experiences for guests and all users”.
Do you mind sharing some of the projects you have been working on, where the “environment integration” was in the center of the Architecture and Property Landscaping?
An interesting example of this integration could be a project developed for one of the leading hospitality groups in the world, to be located in Mauritius Island. This project considered different aspects of its unique natural setting to integrate different spaces that would accommodate special experiences for its guests. For instance, the reception would be located close to a waterfall to provide natural cooling and a ´wow factor´ upon arrival, the main hotel building would literally emerge from the natural terrain and the exclusive villas would respond to the site´s topography and an exhaustive study on optimal landscaping, orientation, views and privacy.
Which architect most influences your work or your work habits?
There have been three influential figures in my work habits to date, all of whom I have met and worked with throughout my professional life: Enrique Murillo, a great Mexican architect, Sir Peter Cook, a distinguished British professor and visionary and Lord Norman Foster, one of the most respected living architects in the world. They have all led through example, to challenge conventions, to exceed standards on design quality and to inspire current and new generations to understand that good, innovative and sustainable design can truly make our world better.
Kian Liew heads up the Global ID & Technical Services department for The Ascott Limited; he has been working for the group for over 11 years. He believes in the harmony of geometry, linearity, layering, and textures to create beautiful spaces. He is meticulously disciplined in observing the “grammar of interior design”, whilst also being mindful of the coherence of occasional objects and accents. Kian shares his Design journey with us and speaks about the new co-living brand “LYF” by Ascott.
Do you mind sharing your professional story? How did you start working in Design for the Hospitality Industry?
I never actually thought of becoming a designer. I started out in Business Management. One of my pastimes was visiting apartment show suites. Seeing how different elements came together to form elegant compositions sated an innate curiosity in design, while also filling me with a desire to engage in my own design process instead of being a mere observer. I decided to take the plunge by putting together a portfolio and applying to the Chelsea College of Arts in London.
After graduating, I eventually found myself involved in Hospitality design with The Ascott. It felt like a natural fit because designing for hospitality projects requires a holistic approach, something that attracted me to design in the first place. Things have come full circle, and today, I get to design apartments that are as aesthetically pleasing as they are comfortable for our guests. I particularly enjoy how the finer touches, from the selection of artwork to the uniform design, further enhance the guest experience.
What are your main responsibilities as VP, Head of Global ID & Technical Services for Ascott Limited?
I currently wear two hats. As head of the technical services team, I oversee a team of engineers and interior designers. Together with the architecture team, we are custodians of several brands under The Ascott Limited umbrella. In addition to establishing design guidelines and auditing the designs of different projects, we collaborate with designers to identify and advocate innovations in materials, technology, and sustainable construction methods.
At the same time, my team also provides Interior Design services for selected projects. Offering ID services empowers us to define the design narrative and strengthen our brand identity. This role also requires my team to keep abreast with design trends, novel materials and construction methods, enabling us to elevate the quality of our full suite of properties regardless.
The Ascott Group has recently opened two new properties under the “Lyf by Ascott” brands; a new co-living concept. Can you please share more about these new properties?
In terms of Architecture and Interior Design, what were the key challenges of designing a co-living space/building?
At its core, the LYF brand is quintessentially millennial; designed and managed by millennials for both millennials and the millennial-minded. We combine creatively designed living spaces with curated social programmes to create a conducive environment for collaboration. It is the physical embodiment of the values of this generation: connected, confident, creative and collaborative.
LYF Funan, the largest co-living property in Southeast Asia, was the first of our current portfolio of 14 LYF properties (both in operation and under development), with over 2,700 units across Australia, Southeast Asia, China and Japan.
The COVID-19 pandemic presented a fresh set of challenges in designing co-living spaces. For our LYF properties, connection, collaboration and community are extremely important. We’ve had to bring the design process back to the drawing board, distilling it down to fundamental design principles, seeing how we can achieve objectives such as a sense of community without compromising safety.
What are you working on at the moment, and do you have any upcoming projects or collaborations that you are able to tell us about?
This is an exciting year for us! We will be opening lyf Tenjin Fukuoka, which will be our first operational LYF in North Asia. Closer to home, we are also working on Citadines Connect Rochester Singapore, bringing the Connect brand hotels to Singapore for the first time.
Which Architect or Interior Designer influences your work or your work habits?
While I do admire the works of several Architects and Interior Designers, I am primarily inspired by projects driven by robust narratives as opposed to arbitrary notions of aesthetics. I believe that design is just another form of storytelling, using material and space instead of words. A good design is one that responds to the constraints of its environment in an imaginative and purposeful manner.
Do you mind sharing what are your passions outside of the design world?
I am a huge foodie. Fortunately (or unfortunately) for my friends, I don’t just love to eat. I love to experiment and create as well. I think this is something that has carried over from my design process. Just as a novel combination of materials, textures or geometries might be just what it takes to give our next project that Je ne sais quoi, a seemingly unorthodox blend of ingredients could elevate a dish. These experiments don’t always go as planned, but we never know if we never try.
Ascott Marunouchi Tokyo – Bedroom
Ascott Marunouchi Tokyo – Public Space
Ascott Marunouchi Tokyo – Public Space
Ascott Orchard Singapore – Penthouse
Ascott Orchard Singapore – Penthouse
Ascott Orchard Singapore – Penthouse
Stanislas Helou has joined the LIV Hospitality Design Awards Jury panel, bringing years of experience in the Luxury Rental Market. Working previously for “Luxury Retreats” and “AirBnB”, Stanislas is now the Head of Supply Europe for OneFineStay, acquired by Accor Group.
Could you tell us a little about yourself? Where are you from?
Citizen of the world! I’m French with Lebanese & Polish roots and have lived in 8 different countries throughout my life. Thanks to this I speak 5 languages and understand a variety of cultures.
What inspired your love for Design and why choosing the Luxury Rental/House/villa… industry?
I studied Hotel Management at Glion Institute of Higher Education in Switzerland (top two best hotel management schools in the world) so it gave the base needed to work in different management positions in luxury hotels in New York City, Crete, London & Barcelona. Entering the world of luxury villa rentals was completely new to me six years ago but if you look at the big picture, it’s a parallel world where my experience, leadership skills and love for luxury personalized service would fit in perfectly.
You have recently joined OneFineStay, a platform dedicated to Luxury Short term rental part of Accor Group as Head of Supply. What are your main responsibilities?
My two main responsibilities are handpicking the correct destinations in Europe where we’d like to rent luxury villas to our distinguished guests as well as striking partnership deals with villa owners to market their beautiful properties onto our platform.
What makes a “great” luxury rental property? What are the key elements or Key criteria you are looking for?
First of all, the property has to be luxurious in and out in regard to its destination. We cannot look at a villa in Miami the same way you’d look at a villa in Tuscany. We have a 250+ point inspection report that helps us handpick the properties that fit our portfolio and that we know our guests will love. An overview of the design of the villa is important. Is it well decorated? Is the garden well taken care of? What’s the bathroom vs bedroom ratio? And then we look into the tiny details such as making sure there are enough red wine glasses for the entire number of guests that can fit in the property or if there are quality pool towels. Our guests can trust us completely.
In terms of Interior Design/ Architecture, have you noticed any particular recent trends for the Luxury Rental market?
Not so much as a trend, but I see that owners take pride in either decorating their beautiful villas themselves or select an interior designer who understands their taste and that can decorate their properties the way they like. Each villa has its own ‘’wow’’ thing. It could be a staircase designed by a famous architect, a piece of art, a large infinity pool with a glass bottom, or an indoor booking ring.
Do you mind sharing what are your passions outside of the design world?
Education is something I hold dear to me. I’ve been teaching different classes to Bachelor and Masters students in hotel management schools in Switzerland and Spain for over four years now. Being part of the education of the leaders of tomorrow is a special and honorable feeling.
Cristiano Pistis joined NH Hotel Group as Senior Director in 2016, managing the Italian team of Project, Construction, Maintenance & Engineering based in Milan. Cristiano managed over 50 projects in the last years, he is sharing his experience and challenges to work in Design for Hospitality.
Can you tell us a bit about your background? Where are you from?
I was born in Sardinia (Italy) a small and beautiful island in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea.
After high school, I moved to Turin to study Architecture at the Polytechnic. This University gave me a strong background in Architecture without losing a special focus on technology and the relationship between conceptualization and execution. Architecture, but in general everything related to construction or transformation, has always been a big passion of mine.
My father worked in the same industry and I still remember myself, when I was 10 years old, lost in new empty buildings on construction, curious about the coordination of the works and the different professionals involved. It was quite dangerous, but it was there that I started learning.
What has inspired you to work in the Design field?
I have always been a strong dreamer with a marked attitude to building. The two things mixed made me an early designer. The idea that through the design process we could make things better is something that, always, excites me and keeps me awake and young-brained.
Finally, I truly believe that design can be, not always but often, one of the disciplines that can improve life making it better and giving meaning to the space around us.
What does your current position as Senior Director, Building Engineering & Maintenance – Southern Europe for NH group involve?
It is a journey across different challenges and adventures on different levels. My department is responsible for all the Refurbishments and the New Openings in Italy. Even if the basic unit of the hotels is the room, with almost similar needs and services to be provided, each project is different from the other.
Essentially, we act as a Project Management Office coordinating all the phases starting from the preliminary estimations to the closing of the works and the handover. We use external designers for almost all the projects and with them, we develop technical designs to be awarded and then executed. We are responsible for the entire process in full collaboration with Hotels and the help of the GMs and their teams.
One of the important things is to work as a unique team with the other departments to deeply understand the needs and the characteristics of each hotel and for each project. A great briefing means a strong project. This is where we start.
Can you tell us more about the upcoming properties for NH Group in Southern Europe?
Even during this pandemic crisis, there are several interesting new openings that are coming in the next years. We are working on new Hotels in Milan, Rome, Cagliari, Venice and Murano and the surprises are not yet finished.
If you had to choose just one of your projects, which project would it be and why?
Wow…Difficult question! The projects we developed during the last 5 years are like kids. I love them all. The most challenging is also the most beloved.
For sure, I would list here the new openings in France, the NHOW Marseille, the NH Collection Marseille, and the NH Toulouse. But then all the refurbishment and new openings we managed in Italy. Really a difficult choice. I remember meetings, site inspection, people I met, flights, sandwiches, and the brand-new room’s peculiar smell.
Although I also remember mistakes that must not be repeated and details that I wanted to do differently.
From each project, I learned new lessons.
What do you feel is the most challenging part of working in Hospitality Design today?
Even if the times are harder than ever and we are facing a never experienced situation the question for designers is always the same. How to interpret the future ways to use the spaces and the new tendency that will be actual in the next five or 10 years at least? How to conceptualize a project which can last more than one season? This is always the main challenge, and I’m not only talking about aesthetical topics but also about durability and operational needs among the product/hotel life.
Outside of the Design World, do you mind sharing your other passions?
Very standard ones…Technology, sea, music, etc. In the private life, I am a flaneur, curious about everything.
Last, do you have any tips for aspiring Hospitality Architects/Interior Designers?
First, to be filled with a lot of passion. Then to study a lot and observe how people interact with and/or in public spaces. Finally, even if it can be quite expensive, to have life experiences, having late drinks in bars, dance all night long, work in lobbies, sleep in as many different hotels and rooms as possible, take notes of any tiny, weird detail.
In few words…. Kiss the future
Casa del Pingone – Project by F.De Giuli, C.Pistis, P.Cobianchi
Casa del Pingone – Project by F.De Giuli, C.Pistis, P.Cobianchi
NH Collection Carlina – Project by F.De Giuli, F.Fusari, D.Dutto, C.Pistis
NH Collection Porta Nuova – Project by AI Progetti
NH Collection Touring – Project by Caberlon Caroppi
NH Venezia Rionovo – Project by AI Progetti
NH Moscova – Project by Studio Scamporrino
NHOW Marseille – Project by Claire Fatosme, Christian Lefèvre, Teresa Sapey
NHOW Marseille – Project by Claire Fatosme, Christian Lefèvre, Teresa Sapey
Elena Apiou has participated in redefining the design DNA of Accor’s historic brands Novotel and ibis, organizing international design contests, and collaborating with internationally renowned designers and architects such as the Sundukovy sisters, Innocad, Ramy Fischler… She has also contributed to innovative projects (mobile hotel, wellness center…) aiming to constantly rethink tomorrow’s hospitality. She is now the “Head of design” for Adagio Aparthotels (Accor group & Pierre et Vacances) and her goal is to transform and bring more emotion to this brand through new design concepts.
Can you tell us a bit about your background? Where are you from?
I was born in France but raised between France and Spain. This bi-cultural background has given me the habit to keep moving and cross borders.
I studied Public affairs and international management and already tried, at that time, to live as many international experiences as possible (internships, exchange programs…)
This curiosity and interest in foreign countries and other cultures led me to fly to Latin America, right after my graduation, to start working in the tourism and hospitality industry. That’s when I joined the Accor office in Sao Paulo 10 years ago as a financial and operational project manager.
Since the beginning of my career, I have always had the opportunity to closely collaborate with the Design department of the company. I kept thinking that those guys had the most exciting job ever!
I eventually traveled back to Europe in 2013 and working in the design department quickly appeared to be an obvious next step for me. My experience as a project manager, leading international projects, was a valuable skill for Accor Design Director. This is how I entered the design field! I worked for 6 years as a design project manager on new interior concepts. Until I assumed my new job, more than one year ago, as head of design for Adagio Aparthotels.
What has inspired you to work in the Design field?
No matter its nature (interior design, product design, graphic design, industrial design…), the design aims at making people’s life easier and more beautiful. Isn’t that inspiring? ?
Designing interiors is not just arranging beautiful spaces, choosing nice materials and colors or elegant furniture. It goes further than that. Designing interiors is actually designing experiences, that clients will hopefully enjoy and therefore remember. Knowing that we have a direct impact on clients’ feelings is really inspiring.
Design is also very inspiring to me as it is a multidisciplinary and shape-shifting field at the crossroads of different expertise. It’s a thinking process that must address many stakeholders’ needs and views. In the hospitality industry, design bridges the gap between marketing, development, operations, real estate and finance, maintenance, and construction… As a design team, we keep on working with many different people, we bring them together to eventually come up with constructive and beautiful projects that address real needs. This is all the complexity of the design, but this is what makes my job so engaging!
At Accor Group, you have participated in redefining the design DNA of Accor’s historic brands Novotel and ibis, can you please tell us more about it?
The design has become one of the main – not to say the main – differentiator for hospitality brands. In 2016 and 2018 ibis and Novotel went through a deep repositioning with the ambition to remain references in the Economy and Midscale hospitality markets.
Both projects were a tight collaboration between design and marketing teams and followed a similar process.
We organized two international design contests to eventually select the best partners to work with to redefine the brand’s design DNA. But instead of appointing one winner, we decided to choose one interior design studio per main region (Europe, the Americas, Asia and Middle-East Africa). This is how we ended up working with Innocad (Austria), FGMF (Brazil), and Soda (Thailand) for ibis; RF Studio (France), Metro (Brazil), Sundukovy Sisters (Russia – Dubai) for Novotel.
The objective was to come up with a collection of design concepts for both brands, with different regional inspirations but to be deployed anywhere in the world. For instance, the concept designed by Metro Studio in Sao Paulo can be chosen for a new Novotel construction in London.
Both processes have been a great success. Working with different studios simultaneously has turned out to be extremely enriching and has enhanced everybody’s creativity.
The concepts of each brand are today visible in the network!
Novotel new concept by RF Studio – Restaurant
Novotel new concept by RF Studio – Lobby
Novotel new concept by RF Studio – Bedroom
What are the main challenges when designing Aparthotel? What makes Adagio Aparthotels unique in terms of Architecture and Interior Design?
One of the main challenges when designing Aparthotels is turning them into emotional and trendy spaces, while they are too often mainly chosen for their functionality. Actually designing an Aparthotel is designing a real home, where people are meant to stay for weeks even months. And that makes our job quite different from designing a hotel. The memorable experience won’t necessarily come from the aesthetics, the disruptive or impacting aspect of the interior. The memorable experience will come from the flawlessness of the stay, the feeling of home away from home, the sensation of being taken care of… and that needs to be conveyed by design.
Another challenge is finding the right balance between durability and attractivity. When designing a new property we need to design a product that will last for a few years, at least 8 or 9. But today clients are used to seeing new hospitality and F&B concepts popping up every year or couple of years. Their perception of modernity and “trendiness” declines very quickly. Not easy to design interiors in such a challenging context. The key is to respect the brand DNA and to work with talented creatives that will understand it.
For Adagio, this means designing comfortable and warm interiors, to offer the easiest and smoothest experience to our guests. We know we don’t propose a “state-of-the-art” design aesthetically speaking. But we do our best to offer the friendliest and home-feeling spaces. Conviviality and togetherness are two pillars of the Adagio brand and we always have them in mind when working on interior design projects, might they be refurbishments or new-builts.
Adagio Access new apartment concept (pictures ©Abaca)
Adagio Access new apartment concept (pictures ©Abaca)
Adagio Access new apartment concept (pictures ©Abaca)
What are you working on at the moment, and do you have any upcoming projects or collaborations that you’re able to share?
We have just released a new concept for the Adagio Access brand (economy long-stay brand) and are currently finishing Adagio’s new apartment concept in collaboration with French designer Didier Versavel.
We are also working on a co-living concept with French studio Numero 111. The idea is to propose – within Adagio and Adagio access buildings – bigger apartments (4 to 6 bedrooms and a big living area) to host families, groups of colleagues, friends…nAnd I have many more ideas in mind for the coming months and years!
Outside of the design world, do you have any other passions?
I guess you won’t be surprised if I tell you I spend as much time as possible traveling ? Apart from the business trips, I try to travel out of France one weekend per month. Eager to get back on track once the sanitary situation gets better.
I love music in general. I really enjoy the opera more specifically. I used to sing in choirs for many years and play the flute. And I am a big fan of my city, Paris. So much to see, to taste, to discover, to live…!
Novotel new concept by Sundukovy sisters
Novotel new concept by Sundukovy sisters
Novotel new concept by Sundukovy sisters
