AHEAD Awards 2024: Celebrating Excellence in Hospitality Design

AHEAD Awards 2024: Celebrating Excellence in Hospitality Design

By Author

Published on January 27, 2024

AHEAD, the prestigious awards recognizing excellence in hospitality experience and design, is now accepting global entries for the year 2024. The awards, organized by the team behind Sleeper, Supper, and Starboard magazines, honor outstanding hotels and the creative minds shaping them. To encourage participation, there is a limited-time 20% discount on entry fees available until March 1.

The independent panel of experts, consisting of architects, designers, owners, operators, developers, and industry commentators, will evaluate projects based on exceptional design, functionality, client and guest satisfaction, and commercial viability.

Winners will be revealed at regional ceremonies throughout 2024, with categories spanning from Guestroom and Event Spaces to Hotel Conversion and the prestigious Hotel of the Year.

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Eligible projects include hotels, resorts, lodges, cabins, and tented camps that opened within specific date ranges for each region:

Asia: January 2023 – April 2024

Americas: January 2023 – April 2024

MEA (Middle East and Africa): January 2023 – June 2024

Europe: January 2023 – July 2024

Entry fees are categorized as follows:

Early (£220) – applies before March 1, 2024

Standard (£275)

Late (£330) – applies in the final two weeks

To explore entry guidelines, regional deadlines, and kickstart your entry process, visit AHEAD Awards Platform.

About AHEAD Awards:

AHEAD stands as the preeminent global awards program recognizing excellence in hospitality experience and design. Hosted annually in Singapore, New York, Dubai, and London, these awards celebrate the most exceptional projects and the talented teams behind them.

Organized by the team responsible for the industry-leading publication Sleeper, AHEAD serves as a benchmark for design excellence worldwide, with a distinguished panel of 60+ industry leaders, including architects, interior designers, and developers.

The awards are categorized regionally into Asia, the Americas, the Middle East and Africa (MEA), and Europe. Spanning diverse categories such as Hotel Newbuild, Hotel Renovation, Guestrooms, Bar, and Restaurant, each regional panel seeks projects that exemplify outstanding design, functionality, and commercial viability.

Entries for the AHEAD 2024 series are now open. For more information and to enter, download the entry guidelines here. Stay updated on the latest announcements, including deadline reminders and ticket releases, by signing up for the mailing list.

Save the date for AHEAD Asia, scheduled at Parkroyal Collection Marina Bay on September 25, 2024. Join our mailing list for timely updates.


Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor Welcomes Guests, Introducing a New Chapter for the Storied Destination and Historic Landmark

Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor Welcomes Guests, Introducing a New Chapter for the Storied Destination and Historic Landmark

By Nishang Narayan

Published on August 23, 2024

After a thoughtful restoration and the addition of numerous enhancements, a long-time European summer favorite has reopened as a new Four Seasons experience. Set in the heart of a vast private estate with carefully restored gardens, seaside woodlands, rugged cliffs, and secret beaches, the Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor has reemerged as a sustainable and soulful luxury holiday destination, retaining its glam-chic charm.

“With our legacy of reviving legendary hotels with a respectful approach to modernization, we are very pleased to add Hotel Formentor to our portfolio of historic European properties that have been restored and enhanced as a new Four Seasons experience,” says Rainer Stampfer, Four Seasons President, Global Operations – Hotels and Resorts. “As we welcome a new generation of holidaymakers who love the sun, sand, and sea, all wrapped in the heartfelt care for which Four Seasons is renowned, the story of this beloved destination continues.”

The 40-hectare (100-acre) resort is set amid a large estate that also includes a working vineyard, offering a world away from the hustle and bustle, yet easily connected to surrounding sites and recreational activities. The resort blends poetic charm with luxury hospitality and European sophistication, respecting the natural beauty of the land and its history.

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Modern Interiors Surrounded by Thoughtfully Restored Gardens and Natural Wilderness

Sustainability is at the core of the resort’s restoration efforts. All 110 guest rooms and suites feature terraces facing the sea, with some offering private plunge pools. The bright and airy décor uses natural materials throughout, evoking a seaside glamour that is both nostalgic and modern. The surrounding landscape has been meticulously restored, with native plantings of fragrant flowers among towering pine groves, allowing for walking paths, exotic garden settings for events, and quiet spaces for reflection.

A Destination Within: Exploring the Formentor Peninsula

Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor is the starting point for explorers of all interests. The resort’s concierge team offers a suite of unique experiences and one-of-a-kind excursions guided by local experts. Highlights include the full-day Enchanting Tramuntana mountain tour, yachting tours around the Formentor Coastline, and a full-day trip to the island of Menorca. Guests can also enjoy hiking, biking, snorkelling, and a variety of water sports, with expert instruction and guided treks available.

From the Height of Excitement to the Ultimate in Relaxation

The resort offers something for everyone, from adrenaline-pumping water sports to relaxing on the beach with a cold drink. Guests can borrow bicycles, play tennis, or simply unwind on the plush sunbeds provided. For families, the Kids For All Seasons program offers a range of activities, with a dedicated teen center set to open in 2025.

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A Gastronome’s - and a Cook’s – Paradise

Culinary experiences at the resort are overseen by Executive Chef Francesco Mannelli. Dining options include Mel, which serves a farm-and-sea-fresh Mediterranean menu, Quiosc, an open kitchen and terrace by the pool, and Xiringuito, a beachfront eatery offering refreshing drinks and light fare. Oenophiles will appreciate the resort’s private vineyard, where they can learn about the grapes and the growers.

The concierge team has also curated special experiences, such as a morning at a farmer’s market and an olive oil tour. The Ancient Finca Discovery tour offers a hands-on cooking class at sunset in a 13th-century stone house, followed by stargazing with a local astronomer.

Mind, Body, and Soul – Spa and Wellness at Four Seasons

Wellness is a key focus at the resort. Guests can practice Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, led by a mindfulness expert, or join an oil painting workshop with a local artist. The resort’s gym offers state-of-the-art facilities, and a pop-up spa is available for the 2024 season, with a full-service spa set to open in 2025.

Book Now and Be Part of a Continuing History

In celebration of its grand opening, Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor is offering several packages for guests of its inaugural season, running until October 31, 2024. The resort will reopen in March 2025 for its second season. Guests can arrive in style with limousine service from the airport to Port de Pollensa, where they will board a luxury yacht for the final leg of the journey.

With its variety of indoor and outdoor spaces, the resort is also an ideal setting for corporate retreats and destination weddings. The resort’s expert events specialists are available to help plan memorable occasions.

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About Four Seasons

Four Seasons opened its first hotel in 1961 and has since become a global leader in luxury hospitality and branded residential properties. The company currently operates 132 hotels and resorts in 47 countries and continues to grow with a guest-centric mindset. Four Seasons consistently ranks among the world’s best hotels, resorts, restaurants, and bars, offering unparalleled service experiences. For more information and reservations, visit fourseasons.com.

Contact: fourseasons@kwtglobal.com


Layan Verde Celebrates Successful High Season Sales and Announces New Launch

Layan Verde Celebrates Successful High Season Sales and Announces New Launch

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on June 22, 2024

Layan Verde, a prestigious residential estate in Phuket developed by VillaCarte Group, proudly announces a highly successful high season. From November 2023 to May 2024, the project sold 121 lots covering 7,272.8 square meters, amassing sales over 1 billion baht. This impressive performance underscores the growing appeal of Layan Verde’s premium real estate offerings.

During this high season, the majority of sales were driven by smaller units, with studios and one-bedroom apartments making up 94% of purchases. Studios alone accounted for 58% of the total sales, while one-bedroom units represented 36%. These smaller, more affordable units attract investors early in the sales process, with interest in larger apartments typically increasing as construction progresses.

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Layan Verde saw a notable surge in sales during May, particularly through direct transactions on its website and referrals. This trend highlights a shift towards more efficient and stable sales methods, reducing the reliance on seasonal demand fluctuations and paving the way for consistent year-round results.

Layan Verde’s buyers hail from 13 countries, including former Soviet Union states, Europe, India, and the United States. Notably, 76% of buyers are men from Russia and Ukraine, who account for 68% and 13% of purchases, respectively. The majority of buyers fall within the 37 to 51 age range, with the youngest buyer being 22 and the oldest 76. This diverse clientele reflects Layan Verde’s broad international appeal.

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Vadym Bukhkalov, CEO of VillaCarte Group, notes the substantial transformation in Phuket’s real estate landscape over the past 12 years. The area has seen significant infrastructure developments, including new neighborhoods, roads, and amenities. Bukhkalov predicts dynamic growth and price increases in Phuket's real estate market over the next few years, driven by external investment and post-pandemic demand.

In response to increased demand, Layan Verde is launching the new premium investment B3 building. Operating under the Dusit Collection brand, known globally for its hotels and resorts, B3 is strategically located in the heart of the Layan Verde complex, close to shops, cafes, and the Ocean Club.

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Building B3 features seven stories and offers eight diverse layout options, from studios to three-bedroom apartments. Each unit will be delivered with high-quality finishes, with an option for a comprehensive furniture package. The building will also receive the EDGE certificate, ensuring up to 45% savings on utility bills through advanced technologies. The project is scheduled for completion in 2027.

About Layan Verde and VillaCarte Group

Layan Verde is a unique residential project in Choeng Thale, Phuket, blending contemporary luxury with the island’s serene environment. Designed by Top-40 architect Mohammed Adib, the estate covers 108,000 square meters and includes 945 apartments across 15 buildings. It features extensive landscaping and a self-sufficient mini-city environment, with on-site shopping and dining options.

VillaCarte Group, founded in 2012, has established itself as a key player in Thailand’s real estate market with over 12 years of experience. The company’s portfolio includes over 300,000 square meters of development projects, encompassing 1,600 villas and apartments, four hotels, and more than 30 cafes, bars, and restaurants. Notable projects include La Vista Villas, Layan Green Park, La Green Hotel & Residence, Villa Carte, and Sabai Ecoverse.


Hilton Unveils Ambitious Plan to Double Lifestyle Hotel Presence by 2028

Hilton Unveils Ambitious Plan to Double Lifestyle Hotel Presence by 2028

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 5, 2024

Hilton, a global leader in hospitality, has set forth an ambitious plan to significantly expand its footprint in the lifestyle hotel segment, aiming to double its presence by adding 350 properties within the next four years. This strategic move comes in response to the company's recent acquisitions and the growing demand for lifestyle accommodations.

Hilton's expansion strategy is fueled by recent acquisitions and partnerships that have positioned the company for substantial growth in the lifestyle hotel category. Earlier this year, Hilton acquired a controlling interest in the Sydell Group, a move aimed at expanding the globally renowned NoMad luxury lifestyle brand. Additionally, the company sealed a $210 million agreement with AJ Capital to acquire the Graduate Hotels brand, which boasts over 35 properties worldwide.

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In line with its aggressive growth strategy, Hilton aims to open more than 100 new lifestyle hotels this year alone, marking the debut of its 400th property in this category. This follows the addition of over 50 new lifestyle hotels last year and the approval of another 100 properties.

Key Brands Driving Growth

Hilton's portfolio of lifestyle brands, including Canopy by Hilton, Graduate by Hilton, Motto by Hilton, Curio Collection by Hilton, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, and Tempo by Hilton, are poised for significant expansion in the coming years.

  • Canopy by Hilton: The brand has launched its first resort property in Seychelles and has signed six new hotels in the first quarter of the year, expanding into Greece, Malta, and soon Japan.

  • Curio Collection by Hilton: With a presence in 40 countries by mid-2024, the brand plans to open nearly 30 new properties this year, including the Keight Hotel Opatija in Croatia.

  • Motto by Hilton: Set to reach ten countries by 2026, the brand has upcoming openings in Hong Kong and Bentonville, Arkansas.

  • Tapestry Collection by Hilton: Expanding into markets such as Thailand, Paraguay, and Türkiye, with the first Hilton in Bermuda set to open later this year as Bermudiana Beach Resort.

  • Tempo by Hilton: Expected to have around 30 hotels open by 2026, with new openings in Times Square, New York City, and Nashville.

To spearhead the growth and development of its lifestyle brands, Hilton has appointed Kevin Osterhaus as the president of global lifestyle brands. Osterhaus will oversee the expansion, design, and development of brands within the lifestyle segment.

Kevin Jacobs, Hilton's chief financial officer and global development president, expressed excitement about the company's growth prospects in the lifestyle segment. He emphasised Hilton's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of developers and guests worldwide, ensuring that the brand remains at the forefront of the hospitality industry.

With its strategic acquisitions, robust expansion plans, and strong brand portfolio, Hilton is poised to redefine the lifestyle hotel experience and capture new markets around the globe.

For more information about Hilton and its lifestyle brands, visit Hilton's official website.

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