Boutique + Lifestyle News | Hospitality Design

Lark Hotels Welcomes the Painted Lady to Its Growing Portfolio

Stephanie Chen — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 14:42:38 +0000

Lark Hotels has added the Painted Lady—a recently opened boutique hotel in Birmingham, Alabama—to its growing portfolio of independent properties under management.

Launch in March, the Painted Lady occupies the former Eyer-Raden Building, a restored 19th-century boarding house in the city’s Automotive Historic District that is rumored to have been operated by Louise C. Wooster, a legendary madam who earned local acclaim for her nursing work during the 1870s cholera epidemic.

“It’s an honor to have Lark selected as a partner in managing the Painted Lady,” says Lark CEO Peter Twachtman. “The property has so much soul, and a fascinating past; it’s the exact kind of singular boutique hotel experience that we are passionate about, and we’re thrilled to have the opportunity to manage it.”

Owned by Addicus Advisors, the 22-key hotel has been transformed into a vibrant destination that pays tribute to Birmingham’s layered history. Original architectural elements are paired with colorful interiors, modern amenities, and character-rich finishes.

“The Painted Lady is a unique concept with rich history, and we needed a partner who knew exactly how to bring that kind of property to life,” says Drew Adams, chief enterprise architect at Addicus. “Lark understands the character, creativity, and operational excellence it takes to create great visitor experiences—they were the clear choice.”

Founded in 2012 by Rob Blood, Lark manages boutique hotels across North America, including its own branded concepts such as Bluebird by Lark, Blind Tiger, AWOL, and Life House.

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Sir Hotels Enters UK Market with Sir Devonshire Square

Stephanie Chen — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 15:02:39 +0000

Amsterdam-based boutique hotel brand Sir Hotels has opened its first UK location with the launch of Sir Devonshire Square in London’s Shoreditch neighborhood.

Located on the charming brick courtyard of Devonshire Square, the property originally operated as a warehouse for the East India Tea Company.

The hotel houses 81 rooms (including 11 suites), a gym, and yoga studio. It also features a sprawling public space, which includes a shop selling local products reflective of London’s diverse culture.

The lobby bar serves as the hotel’s vibrant social anchor, transitioning from breakfast fare in the morning to light plates in the afternoon, and, finally, transforming into a bar at night with curated cocktails and cultural programming. The design is intended to foster connection between both guests and locals alike.

The main restaurant and the Cover, Sircle Collection’s private members club, are set to debut later this year.

Sir Hotels—part of Liran Wizman’s Sircle Collection—now operates five properties across five European cities: London, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Ibiza, and Berlin.

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Submit to the 2025 Gold Key Awards

HD Staff — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 13:00:12 +0000

Boutique Design magazine presents the 45th annual Gold Key Awards for Excellence in Hospitality Design.

One of the most prestigious accolades in the hospitality design field, this award recognizes outstanding design from across the globe in 24 categories—from standout hotel spaces spanning all sectors to restaurants, wellness-focused venues, and other hospitality settings. Additional categories include Design at Sea (cruise ships and yachts) and Next-Gen Housing (for senior living, multifamily, co-living, etc.)

The competition’s deadline is August 1, 2025. The cost for each entry is $235. Check out the award categories and enter today!

The Gold Key Awards gala will take place Monday, November 10 at New York’s Cipriani 42nd Street in conjunction with Boutique Design New York (BDNY). Tickets will be available for purchase this summer.

The winners and finalists in each category, in addition to Judges’ So Cool and the Designer of the Year, will be recognized at this special awards ceremony. The event will also celebrate the soon-to-be-revealed 2025 Boutique 18 class, along with Boutique Design’s Up-and-Coming Hotelier of the Year.

This year’s Gold Key Awards judges:

Vedi Aslanyan, vice president of design + technical services – Americas, Ennismore
Nadia Biski, senior vice president architecture and design, Equinox
Kristen Freeland Hines, director of design, interiors, IHG Hotels & Resorts
Michael Dallas Havener, senior vice present development, design + construction, Ryman Hospitality Properties
Sara Kim, partner + senior vice president, brand development, LDV Hospitality
Rob Blood, chairman + founder, Lark Hotels | principal, Elder & Ash
Amy Michaelson Kelly, principal, Hatteras Sky
Staci Patton, senior director of brand design, full service + lifestyle, Hilton
Sarah Walsh, director, global design, luxury, Marriott International

View the 2024 finalists and winners.

For questions, contact Keisha Byrd at keisha.byrd@emeraldx.com.

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Midnight Auteur Officially Opens Its First Boutique Hotel

Stephanie Chen — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 12:39:11 +0000

Midnight Auteur—a hospitality company formed by the founders of cocktail bar Death & Co and the Ramble Hotel in Denver—has unveiled Municipal Grand, a luxury boutique hotel in Savannah, Georgia.

Located on a vibrant corner in a 1960s structure that most recently served as the Broughton Municipal Building, Municipal Grand features 44 guestrooms, a lobby bar and restaurant (Municipal Bar), rooftop pool and lounge (Sun Club), and subterranean bar (the Hot Eye).

A celebration of midcentury design

Envisioned by by AAmp Studio—in collaboration with Lynch Associates Architects and local preservation experts Ward Architecture + Preservation—Municipal Grand takes inspiration from the city’s lush gardens and the building’s midcentury design.

Paying homage to Savannah’s often-overlooked post-WWII modernist movement, the design retains original materials like gray granite walls, white concrete frames, blue mosaic tile, and structural columns, while infusing softened curves, layered textures, and lush, tropical modernist elements inspired by Brazilian and Finnish design traditions.

“Rather than replicate the past, we sought to honor it—celebrating the building’s original design while introducing new interventions that bring warmth, movement, and depth,” says Andrew Ashey, cofounder of AAmp Studio.

Guestrooms at Municipal Grand

This design narrative carries through into the guestrooms, which reflect the inviting nature of Savannah. Midcentury lines and rich materials are imbued with the comfort and warmth of a well-lived home.

Each room begins with a rich green vestibule and millwork threshold that leads to the main living area, where cozy banquettes and custom wood-and-velvet headboards add tactile layers. An arched millwork minibar, topped with marble and stocked with a curated selection of drinks, nods to the hotel’s cocktail-forward ethos. Bathrooms, meanwhile, are characterized by curved shower entries, handmade Moroccan tiles, and red marble vanities.

Select rooms also feature private terraces overlooking Broughton Street.

“Municipal Grand was created with a lively Southern parlor room in mind,” says Ryan Diggins, CEO and partner at Midnight Auteur. “We’ve always been captivated by the vibrancy of a great lobby bar—how it naturally fosters conversation and celebration. With Municipal Grand, we’ve built a hotel that is as much for the city as it is for travelers.”

Midnight Auteur—led by Alex Day, Ryan Diggins, and David Kaplan—manages the ownership, development, and operation of cocktail-anchored boutique hotels.

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Belmond Launches the Britannic Explorer in England and Wales

Stephanie Chen — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 17:01:12 +0000

The introduction of the Britannic Explorer, A Belmond Train marks the inaugural luxury sleeper train to operate across England and Wales.

The train will embark on its first journey to Wales later this month, followed by Cornwall shortly after.

Designing the Britannic Explorer

London-based design studio Albion Nord led the interior design, collaborating with a select group of British artists and artisans including Luke Edward Hall, Mel Campion, and Olly Fathers.

Across eight meticulously restored carriages, the team created a layered environment that bridges British heritage with contemporary design through the use of natural materials (such as stone, wood, and wool) paired with earthy hues and rich textures.

The train houses 18 cabins—three Grand Suites and 15 Suites—each designed to reflect the natural and cultural beauty of the British landscape. Thoughtfully integrated antiques, bold patterns, and tactile finishes establish a refined yet playful atmosphere, whether in the privacy of a guest’s suite or in the social spaces, which include an onboard spa, bar, and restaurant cars.

“Designing the Britannic Explorer has been an extraordinary opportunity to tell a new story of British luxury—one rooted in craft, landscape, and character,” says Camilla Clarke, creative director at Albion Nord. “We wanted the interiors to feel refined yet bold, timeless yet unexpected, much like Britain itself.”

Art in motion

The Double Suites feature custom wallpaper and textiles developed by Luke Edward Hall in collaboration with Rubelli.

His illustrative motifs, inspired by botanicals and regional landmarks, also appear on bespoke furnishings in the Grand Suites. In these spaces, sculptural wood panels by Olly Fathers add a graphic counterpoint, while artwork by Marcus James captures the drama of Britain’s countryside through expressive pen drawings.

Mirrors handcrafted by shell artist Mel Campion accent the powder rooms, while painter Sarah Woods contributes serene landscapes to the Wellness Suite. Lighting by Rose Uniacke offers a minimalist contrast to the more decorative elements, emphasizing craftsmanship and organic form.

In the dining carriages, kinetic paintings by Ed Burkes depict abstract dancers in motion, complemented by hand-dyed textile wall panels by Adam Halls, whose layered compositions are inspired by the textures of lichen and algae.

“Every element, from the palette and materials to the artwork and antiques, was chosen to evoke a sense of place and personality,” Clarke adds. “It has been a privilege to collaborate with Belmond and an inspiring community of British makers to bring this vision to life.”

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Call for 2025 Boutique 18 Nominations

BD Staff — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 19:31:35 +0000

Each year, Boutique Design recognizes 18 emerging hospitality designers for their notable contributions and achievements.

These rising stars will be highlighted in the Fall 2025 edition of Boutique Design magazine, and honored in November at the Gold Key Awards ceremony and during Boutique Design New York (BDNY). The deadline for submissions is Friday, August 1st.

Submit your nominations to celebrate the industry’s future leaders!

Eligible Boutique 18 nominees should have approximately five to 10 years of experience in the hospitality industry and be actively engaged in the design and/or architecture process.

Nominees can be part of the nominator’s firm, another design firm or brand, or have recently started their own studio. The selected class will be announced in September.

The 2024 Boutique 18 class at the Gold Key Awards ceremony in New York

Read about last year’s Boutique 18 class in BD’s Fall 2024 issue.

For more information or questions, contact Keisha Byrd, vice president and brand director, Hospitality Design Group, at keisha.byrd@emeraldx.com.

More from BD: Submit to the 2025 Gold Key Awards!

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Aman Unveils Name of First Luxury Yacht: Amangati

Stephanie Chen — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 16:52:10 +0000

Aman has revealed the name of its first luxury motor yacht: Amangati, which meanings “peaceful motion” in Sanskrit—a fitting moniker for the brand’s debut at sea.

Currently under construction at the T. Mariotti shipyard in Genoa, the 600-foot vessel is slated to set sail in 2027.

Part of the Aman at Sea initiative first announced in 2021, Amangati is being crafted in collaboration with Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design. The name reflects the vessel’s core mission of creating a seamless sense of forward movement and refined tranquility, which echoes the elegant lines and meditative design that will shape the onboard experience.

On board the Amangati

Optimizing privacy and spaciousness, Amangati will feature 47 expansive suites—each with its own private balcony—making them among the largest accommodations found on a yacht of its class.

On board, guests will find a series of elevated amenities, including four international dining concepts, a jazz club, and a serene Aman Spa complete with a Japanese garden. A expansive beach club at the stern will offer direct access to the sea, cementing a connection to the natural surroundings.

Amangati will be powered, in part, by battery technology, as part of Aman’s commitment to minimizing its environmental impact.

Launching in the Mediterranean in summer 2027, the vessel will also be available for private charter.

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The Vanguard Hotel Nods to Local Legacy in Ann Arbor

Stephanie Chen — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 13:00:51 +0000

The Vanguard Hotel, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s Autograph Collection, has opened its doors in Ann Arbor.

Developed by Robert Finvarb Companies and Milford Singer & Company, the property is tailored to today’s individualist traveler through an elevated design by DLR Group that celebrates the Michigan city’s storied university culture.

Guestrooms at the Vanguard Hotel

Located adjacent to the University of Michigan campus, the 188-room property—which spans 24 one-bedroom suites (10 of which feature dual king beds)—is rooted in academic heritage and modern sophistication. Select suites offer private patios with city views and lounge seating as well.

A nature-inspired dining destination

Anchoring the hotel’s F&B offerings is La Serre, a French-inspired brasserie that channels the spirit of naturalist John James Audubon.

With its airy, botanical-forward interiors and two private dining spaces, the restaurant serves as a central gathering point for both locals and visitors.

Meetings with a view

The Vanguard also introduces more than 11,000 square feet of event space across five meeting rooms, all designed to maximize natural light through floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook Ann Arbor’s evolving skyline.

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The Hoxton Lands in Edinburgh’s West End

Stephanie Chen — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 12:30:54 +0000

The Hoxton has made its Scotland debut with the opening of the Hoxton, Edinburgh in the city’s vibrant West End.

Designed by AIME Studios (Ennismore’s in-house design studio), the hotel transforms 11 Georgian-inspired townhouses into a layered and lively destination that blends heritage charm with signature Hoxton style.

A warm welcome

Lobby seating area

A warm, eclectic spirit welcomes guests upon arrival. The lobby features layered materials and vintage-inspired textures, with white-and-gray checkerboard tiling, scalloped detailing, and timber parquet flooring guiding the flow. A vintage amber Murano glass chandelier suspends above, while inviting nooks and midcentury lounge chairs create moments for pause.

The brass-wrapped lobby bar—accented by peach tile and mirrored beer taps—nods to traditional taprooms, and a five-seat screening room tucked just off the space offers a cozy cinematic retreat with burgundy velvet seating.

A tapestry by local artist Jasmine Linington and a custom mural by Verity Woolley add a tactile touch as well.

Guestrooms at the Hoxton, Edinburgh

Biggy Up guestroom

The 214 accommodations, spread across nine room categories, draw from the building’s Georgian roots. AIME preserved original details—such as cornicing, sash windows, and soaring ceilings—while introducing playful modern elements, like raspberry-hued headboards, brushed brass fixtures, and midcentury chandeliers.

Walls are painted in contrasting sage tones, divided by a dado rail, with whimsical details like pineapple-shaped coat hooks and fringe-skirted armchairs that add a playful contrast to the classical backdrop.

Bathrooms feature white subway tiles, octagon-and-dot flooring, and vintage-inspired brass fixtures. Select rooms include skylights for a stargazing moment while soaking.

F&B and events

Patatino restaurant

Anchoring the F&B offerings is Patatino, a trattoria-style restaurant that channels the leisurely spirit of long Italian lunches. Inspired by the Amalfi Coast and styled with theatrical flair, the space features mirror motifs, striped awnings, floral prints, and a dramatic Baroque-style fountain surrounded by banquettes. Rich textures and jewel-toned finishes—including deep blue velvet, green corduroy, and hot pink accents—conjure a layered, romantic setting.

Tailored to Edinburgh’s cultural and architectural grandeur, the Hoxton offers two distinct event concepts. The Get Together, a 3,230-square-foot, ballroom-style venue with a private bar and built-in stage, can host up to 250 guests. Concertina doors allow the space to be split for smaller gatherings.

Meanwhile the Apartment, a hallmark of Hoxton properties, comprises four flexible rooms surrounding a communal pantry with a kitchen that transitions into a bar by evening. Located on the ground floor, the space features herringbone parquet flooring, khaki green accents, and oversized bay windows that flood the interiors with natural light.

The Apartment pantry room

The Get Together event space

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The Oberoi Vindhyavilas Honors Bandhavgarh’s Tribal Heritage

Stephanie Chen — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 12:30:15 +0000

The Oberoi Group has unveiled its newest property, the Oberoi Vindhyavilas Wildlife Resort, located near Bandhavgarh National Park, India’s sanctuary for Royal Bengal tigers.

A design rooted in place

Designed to mirror the natural beauty and heritage of the Vindhya mountain ranges, the Oberoi Vindhyavilas draws heavily from the local craftsmanship of the Gond and Baiga tribes.

Upon entering the resort, guests are welcomed by a monumental wooden entrance door adorned with tribal carvings handcrafted by Gond artisans. The entry serves as a striking invitation into a space designed to immerse visitors in central India’s rich cultural heritage.

The central lounge and bar, bathed in natural light through floor-to-ceiling windows, showcase pale Katni stone, a locally sourced material. The interiors are warmed by vivid Gond artwork that offers a modern tribute to the region’s indigenous communities.

Accommodations at the Oberoi Vindhyavilas

The property features 19 luxury tents and two expansive villas, each adorned with tribal artistry. Interiors feature handpainted wildlife imagery by local artist Rakesh Prajapati, while tented canopies are decorated with intricate tribal motifs.

Sliding glass doors open onto oversized decks and private gardens filled with flowering kachnar trees, creating a connection with the surrounding 21-acre forested landscape.

Dining spaces

The resort’s F&B concepts include the Dining Room, Tree Court, and the Bush Kitchen, which offers an al fresco dining experience by the lake, set against warm, wood-lined interiors.

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