The Old War Office Transformed into a Luxury Hotel: Hinduja's Remarkable Endeavor

The Old War Office Transformed into a Luxury Hotel: Hinduja's Remarkable Endeavor

By Author

Published on September 30, 2023

In a remarkable transformation, London's Old War Office (OWO), a historic World War II landmark, has been reborn as a luxurious hotel, thanks to the efforts of the Hinduja Group and Raffles Hotels & Resorts. This grand opening was graced by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Princess Anne.

The Hinduja family, originating from India, has breathed new life into a site where Winston Churchill once referred to Mahatma Gandhi as a "half-naked fakir." This historic transformation was unveiled by Princess Anne, the princess royal, and a tour of the hotel accompanied by GP Hinduja, Chairman of the Hinduja Group. Collaborating with the French hospitality giant Raffles Hotels & Resorts, this venture has converted the OWO into a luxury haven. The hotel offers rooms at daily rates ranging from INR 1.2 lakh for a room to INR 5.8 lakh for a suite next week.

GP Hinduja, Chairman of the Hinduja Group, expressed, "We have always worked towards strengthening the ties between India and the UK, as we believe our role is to act as a bridge between our host country and our motherland. It took us eight years to transform this iconic structure into a symbol of peace and comfort rather than its World War history. The OWO is set to become a London landmark, representing the legacy of the Hinduja Group. Anyone arriving in London will surely make it their first stop."

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak made a brief appearance at the event, along with parliamentarians, entrepreneurs, hoteliers, and entertainment luminaries. Musical performances by Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber and Andrea Bocelli added a special touch to the occasion. The hotel is set to welcome its first guests starting from Friday, September 29.

The OWO's grand inauguration ceremony was attended by a distinguished guest list, including Princess Beatrice, Sadiq Khan (Mayor of London), Adil Ray (British Actor and Comedian), Natalie Pinkman (British TV presenter), Richard Caring (British businessman), and actors Akshay Kumar and Twinkle Khanna, as stated by the group.

This revamped OWO is now home to 85 Residences by Raffles and has transformed into a culinary district for London, boasting nine new restaurants and three bars, including a rooftop with panoramic views of Buckingham Palace. This transformation represents an endeavor to combine history with modern luxury, and it is sure to leave an indelible mark on London's landscape.


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.

image

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.

image

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.

image

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.

image

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.

image

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.

image

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.

image

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.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.