Marriott International: Boats, Coats, And Historical Anecdotes.

s the world starts to remember again what it was like to explore, and the hospitality sector prepares for life less-restricted, we showcase the hottest luxury Marriott International debuts, all preparing to tentatively ease open their doors, or lower the gangway, and welcome the intrepid, post-lockdown traveller.

Studio 104 is proud to be a nominated bespoke uniform vendor for Marriott International in Europe, so before we list the new openings, we shine the spotlight on one of the jewels in the JW Marriott crown - Grosvenor House, pinpointing how we are helping this indelible London favourite to welcome its loyal following, as soon as it is permissible to do so.

The site of today’s Grosvenor House Hotel, adjacent to Hyde Park, holds a rich history steeped in its connections to royalty and high society.  The residence of the first Duke of Westminster; the Ballroom hosting the Queen Charlottes Ball for the Debutantes; and in more recent years, hosting the Russian Debutantes’ Ball.  The late 19th century also witnessed the rise of the Dandy – defined by Edwardian Promenade as “the male counterpart of the professional beauty; he had no other occupation than to devote himself to being clever, witty, well-dressed and amusing”. The most notorious Dandy of this period - poet, and playwright Oscar Wilde, on entering the original Grosvenor House and taking in its splendour, scribed to his academic friend, “Ah Richard, this is how a gentleman should live!”

It is from these geographical and historical connections that the Studio 104 design team draws its inspiration from in the forthcoming Grosvenor House front of house uniform.  Dukes, Dandies and Debutante creative details, complimented by a colour palette of opulent Hyde Park greens, provide depth and stature to the doorman, porter, and concierge uniform design concept.  

Working with the hotel since 2014, Studio 104 has a history of supporting JW Marriott re-opening this property.  In 2014 we created the uniform for the JW Steakhouse and again in 2019, the year of the historic 90th anniversary renovation, we designed The Park Room uniform, so it is of no surprise that we are integral to the latest unveil, planned for immediately after the current restrictions are lifted.

Take a closer look at the Grosvenor House ‘Caught in the Act’ range at https://www.studio-104.com/works/grosvenor-house

So, from the re-opening of an old favourite, we now focus on anticipated debuts of what could become the darlings of the future.  Each one has its own unique quirks and qualities that make it noteworthy in its inclusion.

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The Reykjavik EDITION: Opening late 2020

EDITION, the unique concept conceived by Ian Schrager and Marriott International is poised to open Iceland’s first five-star hotel in quirky, colourful and creative Reykjavik. The Reykjavik EDITION, a 250-room luxury-lifestyle hotel located on the waterfront, adjacent to the award winning Harpa Centre, will house a private rooftop, three diverse restaurants, a cafe and nightlife space.

Ian Schrager, commented, “I am thrilled to continue the global expansion of the new EDITION lifestyle brand with this incredibly exciting project in Reykjavik. The city is emerging as a fascinating cultural hub making it the perfect location for an EDITION.”

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection: Expected April 2021  

Intended to blend the lifestyle of The Ritz-Carlton’s luxury resorts and the casual freedom of a yachting vacation, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will offer bespoke voyages on three custom-built yachts from April 2021. Evrima, the debuting ship, will call at intimate and signature destinations in Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean and Latin America.  

Two lavish penthouses and 149 suites, each with its own private terrace, will accommodate up to 298 passengers.  There will be a Ritz-Carlton Spa and Sven Elverfeld of three Michelin-starred Aqua will add his creativity to the intimate S.E.A. signature restaurant. The interior finishes are jointly designed by The Ritz-Carlton and leading cruise ship design firm, Tillberg Design of Sweden.

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Matild Palace, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Budapest: Opening October 2020

The UNESCO listed Matild Palace, a grandiose neo-baroque residence on the gateway to the Elisabeth Bridge over the Danube, will be the first Luxury Collection property in Hungary.  Once its doors officially open later this year, the hotel is committed to inspiring guests with its rich history, culture, and epicurean excellence.

The 130 elegantly appointed rooms are complemented by various dining options including The Duchess - a secret liquor library and rooftop garden inspired by the Archduchess Maria Klotild, who commissioned the Palace to include a secret, hidden rooftop bar as a rendezvous for the Decadence Movement; two international restaurants; and Matild Cafe - a dramatic re-imagination of its namesake, originally opened in 1901 and widely touted as being the first cafe to reopen in the city after World War II.

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St Regis Dubai, The Palm: Opening December 2020

Slated to open in December, The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm will feature one of the world’s highest infinity pools. Located on the 50th floor, some 210 meters above ground, and offering a 360-degree view of the Palm Jumeirah, Arabian Gulf, and the Dubai skyline. Set to become one of the most desirable addresses on The Palm, the 289-room hotel, will offer guests distinct dining experiences, including a signature restaurant with sweeping city views on the 51st floor and an all-day restaurant.

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W Nashville: Opening December 2020

"Live music, a buzzing culinary and cocktail scene, young artists; there couldn't be a more perfect city than Nashville for a W Hotel," says Anthony Ingham, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide. Indeed, it seems illogical that it has taken so long for the W brand to come to the Music City.  But, from December, here it is, and from first impressions, it appears to be worth the wait.  Located in The Gulch, a newly revitalised, upscale live-work-play neighbourhood in Nashville, the 364 room W Nashville promises to host a constant line-up of new and next musicians at its on-site live music venue.  It will also include a yoga lawn, two dining concepts from renowned Chef Andrew Carmellini of NoHo Hospitality Group, and a history-meets-modern rooftop bar, where sweeping views of the Nashville skyline will be complemented by wood panelling, a central fireplace, and sliding garage doors along the perimeter.

Written by Ian @ Studio 104