While location and heritage informed the interiors of this latest hotel for Singapore, a modern design aesthetic was allowed to make its mark

Architect: ICI Architects
Interior Designer: Andre Fu

Situated in a sought-after waterfront location in Singapore’s arts and cultural district Marina Bay, the Fullerton Bay Hotel, designed by LCL Architects and Andre Fu, boasts 100 rooms, five individually themed suites and a presidential suite, each with impressive views.

The entrance of the hotel is positioned at the historic Clifford Pier, an important site that saw the arrival of many of Singapore’s early settlers. Taking inspiration from its colourful history, Fu has used vintage nautical maps combined with contemporary art in the public areas to reflect the impressive heritage of the area. (continue reading…)

Hong Kong-born designer Andre Fu is currently one of the biggest names in hospitality design. He graduated from the University of Cambridge in 2000 and founded AFSO in London in the same year. Work on groundbreaking projects such as The Upper House hotel in Hong Kong have made him hot property on the hotel design scene, and his concept for the Fullerton Bay Hotel is another triumph. With more projects in the pipeline, including one destined for London – watch this space.

You’ve said previously that you enjoy travelling. Do your travel experiences inform your approach to hotel design?
I think travelling is an integral part of my daily life and the exposure to different cultures, smells and textures could all inform my approach to hotel designs. (continue reading…)

It may be have a roof shaped like a stingray, but this boutique hotel only attempts to complement the scenery, never rival it

Architect: Robert Morris Nunn and Associates
Interior Designer: Chada
Lighting Designer: Pointofview

Boasting an awesome outlook over the Hazards Mountains and Great Oyster Bay, it made sense that the design of the Saffire Freycinet hotel in Tasmania should complement rather than compete with nature.

The captivating organic form of the building was masterminded by award-winning Tasmanian architecture practice Morris Nunn and Associates while the interiors, by CHADA, formerly Chhada Siembieda and one of Australia’s leading interior design firms, are based around a muted colour palette, with natural materials such as timber and stone used where possible.

The hotel has 20 suites (making it boutique in size but not in ambition) ranging in size from 80 sq m to 140 sq m with a restaurant, lounge, boardroom, day spa and gym among communal facilities. Each suite has stunning views and benefits from a flood of natural light that comes in through large windows. (continue reading…)

Juliet Ashworth has been a key player in leading Australian design team CHADA (formerly Chhada Siembieda Australia) since she joined and became a co-owner in 1999. The company’s first project was the Regent Sydney (now a Four Seasons property) and, under the direction of practice founder Rick Whalley, has specialised in high-end hotels and resorts ever since. Ashworth studied communications at London University of Arts and did an MA at Deakin University in Victoria after moving to Australia when headhunted for a role working for the late Kerry Packer. She became editor in chief at Australian Vogue before embarking on a career in design

What are the most inspiring aspects of the hotel’s location?
Where do I begin? This is one of the most iconic sites, looking across at the Hazards Mountain range, which is formed from ancient pink granite that glows in the evening light and the beautiful blue, green waters of the Freycinet Peninsula. (continue reading…)

Georgian Glasgow takes a Seaweed Bath in the new spa at the contemporary Blythswood Square

Architects: Ron Galloway Associates, Philip Thomson Associates, Dunwoody Associates.
Interior designer: Graven Images

In an historic building on one of the remaining green Georgian squares in the heart of Glasgow city centre, the Blythswood Square Hotel has added a luxury spa to its facilities.

The building dates from 1823, and was previously the home of the Royal Scottish Automobile Club. It was recently transformed into a luxury five-star boutique hotel, retaining some original architectural features such as marble fireplaces, wood paneling and lofty, ornate ceilings.

Against this aristocratic backdrop sympathetic, rich and textural new architectural statements have been applied by the architectural team from Ron Galloway Associates, Philip Thomson Associates and Dunwoody Associates. (continue reading…)