George Yabu and Glenn Pushelberg have been partners in design (and in life) for decades, creating award-winning hospitality spaces that span the globe and never deliver the same experience twice.When they were asked to design the interiors for two distinct hotels built inside the same 37-story building in Downtown Los Angeles, George and Glenn decided to craft the spaces for two contemporary “protagonists” — rooted in the lifestyles of Southern California artists. For The Moxy Downtown LA, they imagined a desert nomad, who would imbue the hotel with a vivacious, mismatched aesthetic and restless energy. For The AC Hotel Downtown LA, they built an elegant Southern California atelier for an artist in residence, constructing a precise, focused space for creatives to host business and social calls alike.In this episode, host Hamish Kilburn — a longtime fan of Yabu Pushelberg — gains deep insights into how George and Glenn create the personalities who drive their hotel designs. He learns how they approached the new Moxy and AC hotels in Downtown L.A. as siblings of the same family,  standing completely on their own but sharing a cultural lineage and a grounded aesthetic that sets them apart from more sleek, nouveau buildings in the neighborhood. And George and Glenn share what’s changed in the hotel design world, what remains the same — and how both are revealed by the decisions they’ve made in shaping the Moxy and AC.00:00 Describing the Moxy and AC as “twins, but not twins”01:00 Introduction to George and Glenn of Yabu Pushelberg, and the distinct hotel brands they were tasked with designing for within the same building in downtown LA03:54 How the Moxy and AC create their specific moods visually, and how these two moods can be enjoyed by the same person06:17 Glenn’s “secret degrees” and Yabu Pushelberg’s creative process for design11:17 The evolution of public areas in hospitality, from structure and prescription to a more fluid lifestyle13:43 Why George wants to challenge the feeling that everybody wants to belong to a tribe when they’re enjoying life in public15:20 How to create a lived-in “artist’s home” as opposed to a more expected, stereotypical “downtown studio”17:00 Reflecting on the ultimate purpose of good hotel design and the journey that George and Glenn are on as lifelong designersFeatured Hotels: Moxy Downtown Los Angeles and the AC Hotel Downtown Los AngelesFeatured Designers: George Yabu and Glenn Pushelberg, Yabu PushelbergExplore more stories about hotel design at Travel by DesignFollow host Hamish Kilburn's hotel design reviews @HotelDesigns

George Yabu and Glenn Pushelberg have been partners in design (and in life) for decades, creating award-winning hospitality spaces that span the globe and never deliver the same experience twice.When they were asked to design the interiors for two distinct hotels built inside the same 37-story building in Downtown Los Angeles, George and Glenn decided to craft the spaces for two contemporary “protagonists” — rooted in the lifestyles of Southern California artists. For The Moxy Downtown LA, they imagined a desert nomad, who would imbue the hotel with a vivacious, mismatched aesthetic and restless energy. For The AC Hotel Downtown LA, they built an elegant Southern California atelier for an artist in residence, constructing a precise, focused space for creatives to host business and social calls alike.In this episode, host Hamish Kilburn — a longtime fan of Yabu Pushelberg — gains deep insights into how George and Glenn create the personalities who drive their hotel designs. He learns how they approached the new Moxy and AC hotels in Downtown L.A. as siblings of the same family,  standing completely on their own but sharing a cultural lineage and a grounded aesthetic that sets them apart from more sleek, nouveau buildings in the neighborhood. And George and Glenn share what’s changed in the hotel design world, what remains the same — and how both are revealed by the decisions they’ve made in shaping the Moxy and AC.<ul><li>00:00 Describing the Moxy and AC as “twins, but not twins”</li><li>01:00 Introduction to George and Glenn of Yabu Pushelberg, and the distinct hotel brands they were tasked with designing for within the same building in downtown LA</li><li>03:54 How the Moxy and AC create their specific moods visually, and how these two moods can be enjoyed by the same person</li><li>06:17 Glenn’s “secret degrees” and Yabu Pushelberg’s creative process for design</li><li>11:17 The evolution of public areas in hospitality, from structure and prescription to a more fluid lifestyle</li><li>13:43 Why George wants to challenge the feeling that everybody wants to belong to a tribe when they’re enjoying life in public</li><li>15:20 How to create a lived-in “artist’s home” as opposed to a more expected, stereotypical “downtown studio”</li><li>17:00 Reflecting on the ultimate purpose of good hotel design and the journey that George and Glenn are on as lifelong designers</li></ul>Featured Hotels: <a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/laxox-moxy-downtown-los-angeles/overview/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Moxy Downtown Los Angeles</a> and the <a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/laxav-ac-hotel-downtown-los-angeles/overview/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AC Hotel Downtown Los Angeles</a>Featured Designers: George Yabu and Glenn Pushelberg, <a href="https://yabupushelberg.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Yabu Pushelberg</a>Explore more stories about hotel design at<a href="https://marriottbonvoy.com/travelbydesign" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Travel by Design</a>Follow host Hamish Kilburn's hotel design reviews<a href="https://twitter.com/HotelDesigns" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> @HotelDesigns</a>

Los Angeles: Explore Two Hotels Under One Roof at the Moxy and AC Downtown L.A.

Le Méridien

The Maldives, an archipelago of more than a thousand islands off the southern tip of India, is renowned for pristine beaches and unparalleled ocean views. The natural setting of these islands, which sit atop shimmering waters and reflect colors of emerald and royal blue, is the perfect place for an island resort getaway.But while any number of resorts in the Maldives offer snorkeling among the coral reefs and overwater villas that let travelers dive into the lagoon from their hotel rooms, Le Méridien Maldives Resort &amp; Spa stands out — with its careful curation of the island spaces and bold interior designs, inspired by Bauhaus style and the glamorous histories of 20th century fashion and air travel.In this episode, host Hamish Kilburn meets with Singapore-based designer Dan Kridsada to trade Maldives travel stories and reveal all the careful decisions that go into constructing an overwater villa. Dan explains how he turned every room inside-out to establish a seamless connection between travelers and the natural features of the Maldives, then brought in striking visual elements and carefully structured framings to set every room apart, in a way that ultimately heightens the experience of being dropped onto an island in the Indian Ocean.00:00 Pro tip for your arrival to the Maldives00:45 Introduction to Dan Kridsada and the first design question for today’s episode: How do you create such a distinct personality for the hotel, without disrupting the traveler’s connection with the island setting?02:00 Hamish shares his parents’ experience visiting the Maldives when it wasn’t a luxury destination, and Dan explains the balancing act that Le Meridien’s luxury overwater villa is accomplishing, in how it makes guests feel at one with nature07:45 Why Bauhaus? Dan and Hamish talk about the choice to create a bold and striking interior design — including Bauhaus, mid century style, and patterns that layer fashion influences on top of traditional Maldivian references11:08 How to design furniture with sustainability in mind12:30 How to design the perfect sunset experience, starting with an “infinite canvas” and ending up with a one-of-a-kind outdoor bar and pool that overlooks the oceanFeatured Hotel: Le Méridien Maldives Resort &amp; SpaFeatured Designer: Dan Kridsada, BluetteExplore more stories about hotel design at Travel by DesignFollow host Hamish Kilburn's hotel design reviews @HotelDesigns

The Maldives, an archipelago of more than a thousand islands off the southern tip of India, is renowned for pristine beaches and unparalleled ocean views. The natural setting of these islands, which sit atop shimmering waters and reflect colors of emerald and royal blue, is the perfect place for an island resort getaway.But while any number of resorts in the Maldives offer snorkeling among the coral reefs and overwater villas that let travelers dive into the lagoon from their hotel rooms, <a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/mlemd-le-meridien-maldives-resort-and-spa/overview/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Le Méridien Maldives Resort &amp; Spa</a> stands out — with its careful curation of the island spaces and bold interior designs, inspired by Bauhaus style and the glamorous histories of 20th century fashion and air travel.In this episode, host Hamish Kilburn meets with Singapore-based designer Dan Kridsada to trade Maldives travel stories and reveal all the careful decisions that go into constructing an overwater villa. Dan explains how he turned every room inside-out to establish a seamless connection between travelers and the natural features of the Maldives, then brought in striking visual elements and carefully structured framings to set every room apart, in a way that ultimately heightens the experience of being dropped onto an island in the Indian Ocean.<ul><li>00:00 Pro tip for your arrival to the Maldives</li><li>00:45 Introduction to Dan Kridsada and the first design question for today’s episode: How do you create such a distinct personality for the hotel, without disrupting the traveler’s connection with the island setting?</li><li>02:00 Hamish shares his parents’ experience visiting the Maldives when it wasn’t a luxury destination, and Dan explains the balancing act that Le Meridien’s luxury overwater villa is accomplishing, in how it makes guests feel at one with nature</li><li>07:45 Why Bauhaus? Dan and Hamish talk about the choice to create a bold and striking interior design — including Bauhaus, mid century style, and patterns that layer fashion influences on top of traditional Maldivian references</li><li>11:08 How to design furniture with sustainability in mind</li><li>12:30 How to design the perfect sunset experience, starting with an “infinite canvas” and ending up with a one-of-a-kind outdoor bar and pool that overlooks the ocean</li></ul>Featured Hotel: <a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/mlemd-le-meridien-maldives-resort-and-spa/overview/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Le Méridien Maldives Resort &amp; Spa</a>Featured Designer: Dan Kridsada, <a href="https://www.bluettedesign.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bluette</a>Explore more stories about hotel design at<a href="https://marriottbonvoy.com/travelbydesign" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Travel by Design</a>Follow host Hamish Kilburn's hotel design reviews<a href="https://twitter.com/HotelDesigns" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> @HotelDesigns</a>

The Maldives: Overwater Villas with Unexpected Design at Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa

Discover how design, blended with nature, puts you right inside a mangrove, so you can immerse yourself in the jungles of Costa Rica at the El Mangroove Hotel and Residences. Host and hotel design reviewer Hamish Kilburn speaks with owner Andres Pacheco and architect Ronald Zürcher to find out how they worked with the mangrove to build their hotel. Read more about El Mangroove's design on Marriott Bonvoy Traveler.Featured Hotels: El Mangroove, Autograph CollectionFeatured Designer: Ronald Zürcher, Zürcher ArquitectosExplore more stories about hotel design at Travel by DesignFollow host Hamish Kilburn's hotel design reviews @HotelDesigns

Discover how design, blended with nature, puts you right inside a mangrove, so you can immerse yourself in the jungles of Costa Rica at the El Mangroove Hotel and Residences. Host and hotel design reviewer Hamish Kilburn speaks with owner Andres Pacheco and architect Ronald Zürcher to find out how they worked with the mangrove to build their hotel. Read more about <a href="https://traveler.marriott.com/behind-the-design/el-mangroove-costa-rica-design/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">El Mangroove's design on Marriott Bonvoy Traveler</a>.Featured Hotels: <a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/lirel-el-mangroove-autograph-collection/overview/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">El Mangroove, Autograph Collection</a>Featured Designer: <a href="https://zurcherarquitectos.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ronald Zürcher, Zürcher Arquitectos</a>Explore more stories about hotel design at<a href="https://marriottbonvoy.com/travelbydesign" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Travel by Design</a>Follow host Hamish Kilburn's hotel design reviews<a href="https://twitter.com/HotelDesigns" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> @HotelDesigns</a>

Costa Rica: Discover Biophilic Design in a Mangrove Jungle at El Mangroove, Autograph Collection

For the longest time, Airport hotels have been treated as nonchalant, transitional places — simply somewhere to rest your head during a layover, en route to your true destination. With their focus on business clientele, airline staff, and people seeking refuge from a canceled flight or missed connection, airport hotels haven’t always provided an experience that guests could relish as destination-worthy.However, major design overhauls at the Sheraton Amsterdam Airport Hotel and Conference Center and the Sheraton Toronto Gateway Hotel showcase a big leap forward for what airport hotels can offer. By completely reconstructing their interiors to enable a seamless blend of business and leisure, by orienting public spaces around multiple ways to meet and gather, and by infusing the guest experience with genuine ties to local culture, these next-generation airport hotels are charting a new path for travelers who want make the most of every step of their journey.In this episode, host Hamish Kilburn dives into the re-making of the Sheraton Amsterdam Airport Hotel with local designer Colin Finnegan, of FG Stijl. They reveal the nuanced spatial design choices and deep understanding of a traveler’s perspective that informed Colin’s work to re-imagine that hotel experience — from the first moment a guest looks out the window as their flight descends into Schiphol Airport.Then Hamish speaks with Lauren Holmes, Interior Design Manager at Marriott International, about how airport hotels are being reimagined writ large — and what she’s learned from transforming the Sheraton Toronto Gateway Hotel into a more inviting space for repeat travelers and locals looking for a better place to spend their workday.00:00 What exactly is “the airport hotel experience,” and why is it so forgettable?01:45 Hamish’s conversation with Colin Finnegan, founder of FG Stijl and lead designer for the Sheraton Amsterdam Airport Hotel, begins with a walk-through of how the guest’s arrival check-in journey has been completely changed through spatial decisions and visual cues07:23 The thought process behind making an airport hotel feel like a welcoming social space09:04 How to ensure guests feel a genuine sense of place and a strong connection to the local setting13:45 Hamish’s conversation with Lauren Holmes, Interior Design Manager at Marriott, begins with an exploration of who business travelers are and what they want in the next generation of airport hotels18:14 What’s changed in airport hotel guest and client needs, especially with regards to work settings, flexible spaces, and the need to blend leisure with businessFeatured Hotels: Sheraton Amsterdam Airport Hotel and Conference Center and Sheraton Toronto Gateway HotelFeatured Designer: Colin Finnegan, FG StijlExplore more stories about hotel design at Travel by DesignFollow host Hamish Kilburn's hotel design reviews @HotelDesigns

For the longest time, Airport hotels have been treated as nonchalant, transitional places — simply somewhere to rest your head during a layover, en route to your true destination. With their focus on business clientele, airline staff, and people seeking refuge from a canceled flight or missed connection, airport hotels haven’t always provided an experience that guests could relish as destination-worthy.However, major design overhauls at the <a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/amssi-sheraton-amsterdam-airport-hotel-and-conference-center/overview/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sheraton Amsterdam Airport Hotel and Conference Center</a> and the <a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/yyzgs-sheraton-gateway-hotel-in-toronto-international-airport/overview/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sheraton Toronto Gateway Hotel</a> showcase a big leap forward for what airport hotels can offer. By completely reconstructing their interiors to enable a seamless blend of business and leisure, by orienting public spaces around multiple ways to meet and gather, and by infusing the guest experience with genuine ties to local culture, these next-generation airport hotels are charting a new path for travelers who want make the most of every step of their journey.In this episode, host Hamish Kilburn dives into the re-making of the Sheraton Amsterdam Airport Hotel with local designer Colin Finnegan, of <a href="https://www.fgstijl.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FG Stijl</a>. They reveal the nuanced spatial design choices and deep understanding of a traveler’s perspective that informed Colin’s work to re-imagine that hotel experience — from the first moment a guest looks out the window as their flight descends into Schiphol Airport.Then Hamish speaks with Lauren Holmes, Interior Design Manager at Marriott International, about how airport hotels are being reimagined writ large — and what she’s learned from transforming the Sheraton Toronto Gateway Hotel into a more inviting space for repeat travelers and locals looking for a better place to spend their workday.<ul><li>00:00 What exactly is “the airport hotel experience,” and why is it so forgettable?</li><li>01:45 Hamish’s conversation with Colin Finnegan, founder of FG Stijl and lead designer for the Sheraton Amsterdam Airport Hotel, begins with a walk-through of how the guest’s arrival check-in journey has been completely changed through spatial decisions and visual cues</li><li>07:23 The thought process behind making an airport hotel feel like a welcoming social space</li><li>09:04 How to ensure guests feel a genuine sense of place and a strong connection to the local setting</li><li>13:45 Hamish’s conversation with Lauren Holmes, Interior Design Manager at Marriott, begins with an exploration of who business travelers are and what they want in the next generation of airport hotels</li><li>18:14 What’s changed in airport hotel guest and client needs, especially with regards to work settings, flexible spaces, and the need to blend leisure with business</li></ul>Featured Hotels: <a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/amssi-sheraton-amsterdam-airport-hotel-and-conference-center/overview/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sheraton Amsterdam Airport Hotel and Conference Center</a> and <a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/yyzgs-sheraton-gateway-hotel-in-toronto-international-airport/overview/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sheraton Toronto Gateway Hotel</a>Featured Designer: Colin Finnegan, <a href="https://www.fgstijl.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FG Stijl</a>Explore more stories about hotel design at<a href="https://marriottbonvoy.com/travelbydesign" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Travel by Design</a>Follow host Hamish Kilburn's hotel design reviews<a href="https://twitter.com/HotelDesigns" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> @HotelDesigns</a>

Airport Hotels: Designs That Defy Stereotype, from Amsterdam to Toronto

Picture the grand entrance to an Austro-Hungarian palace from the late 19th century, complete with iron-wrought gates and a vaulted ceiling. A beautiful blend of art styles that includes Art Nouveau, Baroque, and Romanesque. Ornate finishings on everything, from handle rails to columns and ceilings. A color palette that reflects the city’s rooftops in teal, green, gold and copper.These sights are just a hint of the bridge to Budapest’s history that is Matild Palace — a Luxury Collection Hotel, housed in the painstakingly restored palace that originally brought into being by Her Imperial and Royal Highness Maria Klotild, of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. Perched at one end of the Elisabeth Bridge in the heart of Hungary’s capital city, Matild Palace is a master class in how to honor a UNESCO-protected site while elevating all of its interiors to feel timeless. Guest beds feature full-height, leather embossed headboards with an art deco pattern inspired by the Hungarian classic, The Adventures of Sinbad. The bathrooms here can function as steam rooms, evoking the ancient natural spas of Budapest — while offering all the modern comforts of a contemporary wellness spa. And the breathtaking Duchess rooftop bar and garden channel the socialite spirit of its benefactor, who had envisioned this hideaway as a haven for embracing one’s joie de vivre.In this episode, host Hamish Kilburn catches up with his friend, Maria Katsarou Vafiadis — founder of London-based MKV Design and the interiors designer behind the intricate reimagination of Matild Palace.00:00 The origins of the royal building in Budapest that would become Matild Palace04:45 Interview with Maria Katsarou Vafiadis begins, exploring the hotel’s regal entrance and the challenge of making the building’s grand scale feel cozy and inviting10:34 Bridging the gap between late 19th century Budapest and contemporary Budapest12:55 Creating a timeless hotel bathroom from the perspective of royalty16:34 Designing for longevity, as a facet of honoring historyFeatured Hotel: Muir Halifax, Autograph CollectionFeatured Designer: Maria Katsarou Vafiadis, MKV DesignExplore more stories about hotel design at Travel by DesignFollow host Hamish Kilburn's hotel design reviews @HotelDesigns

Picture the grand entrance to an Austro-Hungarian palace from the late 19th century, complete with iron-wrought gates and a vaulted ceiling. A beautiful blend of art styles that includes Art Nouveau, Baroque, and Romanesque. Ornate finishings on everything, from handle rails to columns and ceilings. A color palette that reflects the city’s rooftops in teal, green, gold and copper.These sights are just a hint of the bridge to Budapest’s history that is <a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/budlc-matild-palace-a-luxury-collection-hotel-budapest/overview/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Matild Palace — a Luxury Collection Hotel</a>, housed in the painstakingly restored palace that originally brought into being by Her Imperial and Royal Highness Maria Klotild, of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. Perched at one end of the Elisabeth Bridge in the heart of Hungary’s capital city, Matild Palace is a master class in how to honor a UNESCO-protected site while elevating all of its interiors to feel timeless. Guest beds feature full-height, leather embossed headboards with an art deco pattern inspired by the Hungarian classic, The Adventures of Sinbad. The bathrooms here can function as steam rooms, evoking the ancient natural spas of Budapest — while offering all the modern comforts of a contemporary wellness spa. And the breathtaking Duchess rooftop bar and garden channel the socialite spirit of its benefactor, who had envisioned this hideaway as a haven for embracing one’s joie de vivre.In this episode, host Hamish Kilburn catches up with his friend, Maria Katsarou Vafiadis — founder of London-based <a href="http://www.mkvdesign.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">MKV Design</a> and the interiors designer behind the intricate reimagination of Matild Palace.<ul><li>00:00 The origins of the royal building in Budapest that would become Matild Palace</li><li>04:45 Interview with Maria Katsarou Vafiadis begins, exploring the hotel’s regal entrance and the challenge of making the building’s grand scale feel cozy and inviting</li><li>10:34 Bridging the gap between late 19th century Budapest and contemporary Budapest</li><li>12:55 Creating a timeless hotel bathroom from the perspective of royalty</li><li>16:34 Designing for longevity, as a facet of honoring history</li></ul>Featured Hotel: <a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/yhzak-muir-autograph-collection/overview/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Muir Halifax, Autograph Collection</a>Featured Designer: Maria Katsarou Vafiadis, <a href="http://www.mkvdesign.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">MKV Design</a>Explore more stories about hotel design at <a href="https://marriottbonvoy.com/travelbydesign" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Travel by Design</a>Follow host Hamish Kilburn's hotel design reviews <a href="https://twitter.com/HotelDesigns" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@HotelDesigns</a>

Budapest: Become Royalty at Matild Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel

As the capital of Nova Scotia, Halifax is known for its charm, its culinary scene, and its coastal climate. Built on one of the largest natural harbors in the world, this Canadian city is often filled with a gentle fog and sea mist — creating a sense of place that’s simultaneously rooted in the ocean and the earth.Muir Halifax, Autograph Collection has been painstakingly designed to honor and integrate the local maritime history of Halifax. The hotel is nestled seamlessly into the Queen’s Marque waterfront district, where locals and visitors alike gather on the public boardwalk that envelops the hotel and meets the waters of the harbor.The architecture of Muir is full of texture and natural materials inspired by the local topography; sandstone, granite, and muntz metal play a prominent role in the hotel’s construction. And inside Muir, the artisanship of Halifax and Nova Scotia is on full display — via original, commissioned art pieces, as well as custom furniture and interiors that are locally sourced and call to mind the misty shores outside the hotel’s walls. The end result is a luxury hotel that provides an elevated, tactile window into local culture and history.All of this is illuminated by host Hamish Kilburn’s conversation with today’s guests: Alessandro Munge (interior and furnishing designer at Studio Munge) and Grace Zeppilli (art consultant at GZ Art Co.). Together, they’ve crafted an experience that literally puts guests in touch with the environment of Nova Scotia, and in communion with artwork and photography born of this province.Featured Hotel: Muir Halifax, Autograph CollectionExplore more stories about hotel design at Travel by DesignFollow host Hamish Kilburn's hotel design reviews @HotelDesigns

As the capital of <a href="https://www.marriott.com/en/destinations/halifax.mi" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Nova Scotia, Halifax</a> is known for its charm, its culinary scene, and its coastal climate. Built on one of the largest natural harbors in the world, this Canadian city is often filled with a gentle fog and sea mist — creating a sense of place that’s simultaneously rooted in the ocean and the earth.<a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/yhzak-muir-autograph-collection/overview/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Muir Halifax, Autograph Collection</a> has been painstakingly designed to honor and integrate the local maritime history of Halifax. The hotel is nestled seamlessly into the Queen’s Marque waterfront district, where locals and visitors alike gather on the public boardwalk that envelops the hotel and meets the waters of the harbor.The architecture of Muir is full of texture and natural materials inspired by the local topography; sandstone, granite, and muntz metal play a prominent role in the hotel’s construction. And inside Muir, the artisanship of Halifax and Nova Scotia is on full display — via original, commissioned art pieces, as well as custom furniture and interiors that are locally sourced and call to mind the misty shores outside the hotel’s walls. The end result is a luxury hotel that provides an elevated, tactile window into local culture and history.All of this is illuminated by host Hamish Kilburn’s conversation with today’s guests: Alessandro Munge (interior and furnishing designer at <a href="https://www.studiomunge.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Studio Munge</a>) and Grace Zeppilli (art consultant at <a href="https://gzart.co/about/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">GZ Art Co.</a>). Together, they’ve crafted an experience that literally puts guests in touch with the environment of Nova Scotia, and in communion with artwork and photography born of this province.Featured Hotel: <a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/yhzak-muir-autograph-collection/overview/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Muir Halifax, Autograph Collection</a>Explore more stories about hotel design at <a href="https://marriottbonvoy.com/travelbydesign" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Travel by Design</a>Follow host Hamish Kilburn's hotel design reviews <a href="https://twitter.com/HotelDesigns" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@HotelDesigns</a>

Nova Scotia: Experience Maritime Design at Muir Halifax, Autograph Collection

Host Hamish Kilburn, Editor of Hotel Designs, leads us on a globetrotting journey through immersive, insightful conversations with the designers behind the world’s most extraordinary hotels.Travel by Design reimagines the hotel design podcast previously known as Behind the Design. From a secluded overwater villa in the Maldives, to a rejuvenated royal palace in Budapest, to a trendy hotspot in downtown Los Angeles, join us for new episodes — and find your next great travel destination.To learn more, check out more stories from across the globe at Travel by Design.

Host Hamish Kilburn, Editor of Hotel Designs, leads us on a globetrotting journey through immersive, insightful conversations with the designers behind the world’s most extraordinary hotels.Travel by Design reimagines the hotel design podcast previously known as Behind the Design. From a secluded overwater villa in the Maldives, to a rejuvenated royal palace in Budapest, to a trendy hotspot in downtown Los Angeles, join us for new episodes — and find your next great travel destination.To learn more, check out more stories from across the globe at <a href="https://marriottbonvoy.com/TravelbyDesign" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Travel by Design</a>.

Welcome to Travel by Design

Travel by boat across the Venetian lagoon and escape onto a private island, where every step — and every plate of locally sourced food — has been thoughtfully integrated to bring you back into touch with the healing power of earth, sea, and sun.In this episode, we travel to the J.W. Marriott Venice resort and Spa, which gives guests access to the secluded retreat of Isola delle Rose. To understand the impact of designer Matteo Thun on the resort, Host Robin Bennefield chats with General Manager Cristiano Cabutti, who was one of the property's very first team members. While reflecting on what it was like to restore the historic buildings of the island and realize Thun's vision, Robin and Cristiano connect over the universal need for self-care and healing.Then, recalling fond memories of the local meals and cooking classes she took the last time she was a guest at the J.W. Venice, Robin pays a visit to Executive Chef Giorgio Shifferegger. In conversation with Giorgio about the irreplaceable value of a freshly grown tomato, the unique terroir of olives grown on an island, and the joy of sitting with friends and enjoying authentic Venetian cicchetti, she's reminded of how the concept of luxury can often be reduced to the simple act of honoring our surroundings.Whether tending to themselves at the largest spa in Venice, touring the vegetable gardens, tasting freshly pressed olive oil, or retreating into one of the resort's villas, guests come to the J.W. Venice from around the world to immerse themselves in a unique setting for wellbeing. After these conversations with the people who've worked tirelessly to shape that experience, we can honestly say that we can't wait to go back to the island.To see Isola delle Rose, the spa, and all of the green space the island has to offer, book a trip for yourself via marriott.com or read more about the resort's restaurants and bars.You can also read about wellness at the J.W. Marriott Venice, and learn about the hidden world of hotel design, at traveler.marriott.com/venice/jw-venice-design.And to explore the world's greatest destinations and get inspired for your next trip, visit us at traveler.marriott.com.

Travel by boat across the Venetian lagoon and escape onto a private island, where every step — and every plate of locally sourced food — has been thoughtfully integrated to bring you back into touch with the healing power of earth, sea, and sun.In this episode, we travel to the J.W. Marriott Venice resort and Spa, which gives guests access to the secluded retreat of Isola delle Rose. To understand the impact of designer Matteo Thun on the resort, Host Robin Bennefield chats with General Manager Cristiano Cabutti, who was one of the property's very first team members. While reflecting on what it was like to restore the historic buildings of the island and realize Thun's vision, Robin and Cristiano connect over the universal need for self-care and healing.Then, recalling fond memories of the local meals and cooking classes she took the last time she was a guest at the J.W. Venice, Robin pays a visit to Executive Chef Giorgio Shifferegger. In conversation with Giorgio about the irreplaceable value of a freshly grown tomato, the unique terroir of olives grown on an island, and the joy of sitting with friends and enjoying authentic Venetian cicchetti, she's reminded of how the concept of luxury can often be reduced to the simple act of honoring our surroundings.Whether tending to themselves at the largest spa in Venice, touring the vegetable gardens, tasting freshly pressed olive oil, or retreating into one of the resort's villas, guests come to the J.W. Venice from around the world to immerse themselves in a unique setting for wellbeing. After these conversations with the people who've worked tirelessly to shape that experience, we can honestly say that we can't wait to go back to the island.To see Isola delle Rose, the spa, and all of the green space the island has to offer, <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/vcejw-jw-marriott-venice-resort-and-spa/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">book a trip for yourself via marriott.com</a> or <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/vcejw-jw-marriott-venice-resort-and-spa/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">read more about the resort's restaurants and bars</a>.You can also <a href="https://traveler.marriott.com/venice/jw-venice-design/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">read about wellness at the J.W. Marriott Venice</a>, and learn about the hidden world of hotel design, at <a href="https://traveler.marriott.com/behind-the-design/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">traveler.marriott.com/venice/jw-venice-design</a>.And to explore the world's greatest destinations and get inspired for your next trip, visit us at <a href="https://traveler.marriott.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">traveler.marriott.com</a>.

JW Marriott Venice: Designed for Self-Care in "Real Italian Style"

What is it about sitting by the waves that makes so many people happy? And what does it take to recreate that feeling at a hotel that's nowhere near the ocean?We've spent hours talking about the design of hotels and the world of hospitality. But in this episode, we go on a deep dive into the design of SoundWaves, a one-of-a-kind water attraction that's built into the Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, Tennessee.To see SoundWaves for yourself and book a resort package at the Gaylord Opryland, check out soundwavesgo.com.Read more about SoundWaves and the hidden world of hotel design at traveler.marriot.com/behind-the-design.

What is it about sitting by the waves that makes so many people happy? And what does it take to recreate that feeling at a hotel that's nowhere near the ocean?We've spent hours talking about the design of hotels and the world of hospitality. But in this episode, we go on a deep dive into the design of SoundWaves, a one-of-a-kind water attraction that's built into the Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, Tennessee.To see SoundWaves for yourself and book a resort package at the Gaylord Opryland, check out <a href="https://soundwavesgo.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">soundwavesgo.com</a>.Read more about SoundWaves and the hidden world of hotel design at <a href="https://traveler.marriott.com/behind-the-design/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">traveler.marriot.com/behind-the-design</a>.

Taking the Plunge into Aquatic Design at Gaylord Opryland's SoundWaves

W Hotels recently launched its very own record label, W Records. At the W Music International Summit in Austin, Texas, Marriott Bonvoy Traveler sat down with some of the top innovators in the music industry who led the launch of W Records. Learn how they ensured brand consistency, navigated the changing music industry landscape, and got some of the top emerging artists to come on board. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

W Hotels recently launched its very own record label, W Records. At the W Music International Summit in Austin, Texas, Marriott Bonvoy Traveler sat down with some of the top innovators in the music industry who led the launch of W Records. Learn how they ensured brand consistency, navigated the changing music industry landscape, and got some of the top emerging artists to come on board. See <a href="https://acast.com/privacy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">acast.com/privacy</a> for privacy and opt-out information.

Launching W Records

Behind the facade of every world-class hotel, there’s a story waiting to be heard. From a secluded overwater villa in the Maldives, to a rejuvenated royal palace in Budapest, to a trendy hotspot in downtown Los Angeles — join host Hamish Kilburn as he meets the architects, designers, and visionaries who dive deep into the craft of design and connect us to the world’s most extraordinary travel experiences.Travel by Design reimagines the hotel design podcast previously known as Behind the Design. On each episode Hamish chats with the creative mind behind a one-of-a-kind hotel — to hear what inspired their concept, how they brought it to life, and what it’s like to enjoy the space as a traveler.Curious about the craft of hotel design? Check out more stories from across the globe at marriottbonvoy.com/TravelbyDesign. You can also find photos and additional details about each hotel design on Marriott Bonvoy Traveler (traveler.marriott.com).

Join Marriott TRAVELER as we explore the world of Destiny 2, a video game in which players assume the role of a Guardian and are tasked with reviving a character called (appropriately) The Traveler while journeying to different planets along the way. Learn how the designers grounded the sci-fi settings in reality and how travel inspired the final look of the game. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Join Marriott TRAVELER as we explore the world of Destiny 2, a video game in which players assume the role of a Guardian and are tasked with reviving a character called (appropriately) The Traveler while journeying to different planets along the way. Learn how the designers grounded the sci-fi settings in reality and how travel inspired the final look of the game. See <a href="https://acast.com/privacy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">acast.com/privacy</a> for privacy and opt-out information.

Sci-Fi Meets Reality in Destiny 2

Video game designers are creating landscapes so realistic, it's almost like traveling there yourself. Marriott TRAVELER sat down with the designers of Assassin's Creed: Odyssey, which is set in ancient Greece, to find out what it took to create these landscapes and why recreating Greece was so important to them for this amazing game. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Video game designers are creating landscapes so realistic, it's almost like traveling there yourself. Marriott TRAVELER sat down with the designers of Assassin's Creed: Odyssey, which is set in ancient Greece, to find out what it took to create these landscapes and why recreating Greece was so important to them for this amazing game. See <a href="https://acast.com/privacy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">acast.com/privacy</a> for privacy and opt-out information.

Visiting Ancient Greece in Assassin's Creed: Odyssey

Marriott TRAVELER visited the opening of Toy Story Land in Orlando and spoke with creative designers from PIXAR and Walt Disney. They discuss the process behind translating the beloved Toy Story films into a real-life interactive outdoor park, giving guests the opportunity to step into the stories and immerse themselves in a world of fun. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Marriott TRAVELER visited the opening of Toy Story Land in Orlando and spoke with creative designers from PIXAR and Walt Disney. They discuss the process behind translating the beloved Toy Story films into a real-life interactive outdoor park, giving guests the opportunity to step into the stories and immerse themselves in a world of fun. See <a href="https://acast.com/privacy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">acast.com/privacy</a> for privacy and opt-out information.

To Infinity and Beyond: Bringing Toy Story to Life

This episode of Behind the Design features a very special conversation with Hannah Beachler, who designed the fictional nation of Wakanda for Marvel Studios' blockbuster "Black Panther". Learn how Hannah's travels to South Africa influenced the way she envisioned Wakanda and how she brought those designs to life on the big screen. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

This episode of Behind the Design features a very special conversation with Hannah Beachler, who designed the fictional nation of Wakanda for Marvel Studios' blockbuster "Black Panther". Learn how Hannah's travels to South Africa influenced the way she envisioned Wakanda and how she brought those designs to life on the big screen. See <a href="https://acast.com/privacy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">acast.com/privacy</a> for privacy and opt-out information.

Designing Wakanda: An Exclusive Look Behind the Design of "Black Panther"

A cozy, plush carpet can truly evoke the feeling of a home away from home. Marriott TRAVELER meets with carpet design aficionados to learn how they glean inspiration from the humblest of sources. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A cozy, plush carpet can truly evoke the feeling of a home away from home. Marriott TRAVELER meets with carpet design aficionados to learn how they glean inspiration from the humblest of sources. See <a href="https://acast.com/privacy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">acast.com/privacy</a> for privacy and opt-out information.

Carpet Design Matters

Danish style is influencing design around the world, from restaurants and cuisine to furniture and interiors. Marriott TRAVELER explores the process of bringing comfort and ease into commercial design. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Danish style is influencing design around the world, from restaurants and cuisine to furniture and interiors. Marriott TRAVELER explores the process of bringing comfort and ease into commercial design. See <a href="https://acast.com/privacy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">acast.com/privacy</a> for privacy and opt-out information.

Exploring Danish Design

Join Marriott TRAVELER as we continue the conversation with the designers of Lido House from Autograph Collection at Marriott. In this episode, we talk about the art that occupies Lido House. Lido House's Design Team shares some tips and tricks of interior art and design for those of us looking for big ideas on a budget. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Join Marriott TRAVELER as we continue the conversation with the designers of Lido House from Autograph Collection at Marriott. In this episode, we talk about the art that occupies Lido House. Lido House's Design Team shares some tips and tricks of interior art and design for those of us looking for big ideas on a budget. See <a href="https://acast.com/privacy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">acast.com/privacy</a> for privacy and opt-out information.

Designing Autograph Collection's Lido House - Part 5

Designing Autograph Collection's Lido House - Part 4

Join Marriott TRAVELER as we continue the conversation with the designers of Lido House from Autograph Collection at Marriott. In this episode we talk about furniture and the great lengths the Lido House Design Team has gone to combine function and style to create a tailored environment for each guest. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Join Marriott TRAVELER as we continue the conversation with the designers of Lido House from Autograph Collection at Marriott. In this episode we talk about furniture and the great lengths the Lido House Design Team has gone to combine function and style to create a tailored environment for each guest. See <a href="https://acast.com/privacy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">acast.com/privacy</a> for privacy and opt-out information.

Designing Autograph Collection's Lido House - Part 3

Join Marriott TRAVELER as we continue the conversation with the designers of Lido House from Autograph Collection at Marriott. In this episode we learn their stories and how their professional histories influenced each phase of the Lido House Design. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Join Marriott TRAVELER as we continue the conversation with the designers of Lido House from Autograph Collection at Marriott. In this episode we learn their stories and how their professional histories influenced each phase of the Lido House Design. See <a href="https://acast.com/privacy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">acast.com/privacy</a> for privacy and opt-out information.

Designing Autograph Collection's Lido House - Part 2

Love hearing the behind the scenes info! Need more episodes!!!

Fabulous!

Behind the facade of every world-class hotel, there’s a story waiting to be heard. From a secluded overwater villa in the Maldives, to a rejuvenated royal palace in Budapest, to a trendy hotspot in downtown Los Angeles — join host Hamish Kilburn as he meets the architects, designers, and visionaries who dive deep into the craft of design and connect us to the world’s most extraordinary travel experiences. Travel by Design reimagines the hotel design podcast previously known as Behind the Design. On each episode Hamish chats with the creative mind behind a one-of-a-kind hotel — to hear what inspired their concept, how they brought it to life, and what it’s like to enjoy the space as a traveler. Curious about the craft of hotel design? Check out more stories from across the globe at <a href="http://marriottbonvoy.com/TravelbyDesign" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">marriottbonvoy.com/TravelbyDesign</a>. You can also find photos and additional details about each hotel design on Marriott Bonvoy Traveler (<a href="http://traveler.marriott.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">traveler.marriott.com</a>).

Travel by Design

A bathroom may be the smallest room in a hotel suite, but their design poses a tall challenge to ensure comfort and function. Follow Marriott TRAVELER as we discuss the process of re-designing hotel bathrooms from showerheads to sliding doors to create a luxurious experience in a small space. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A bathroom may be the smallest room in a hotel suite, but their design poses a tall challenge to ensure comfort and function. Follow Marriott TRAVELER as we discuss the process of re-designing hotel bathrooms from showerheads to sliding doors to create a luxurious experience in a small space. See <a href="https://acast.com/privacy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">acast.com/privacy</a> for privacy and opt-out information.

Designing a Better Hotel Bathroom

Lido House is Newport Beach’s favorite guesthouse for locals and visitors. The hotel’s architecture celebrates Newport Beach’s Cape Cod aesthetic with elegant twists on a variety of nautical themes. Sitting on the site of former City Hall, Lido House is the old-new centerpiece of Newport Beach. Join Marriott TRAVELER as we follow the ins and outs of this iconic hotel from the team behind the design. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Lido House is Newport Beach’s favorite guesthouse for locals and visitors. The hotel’s architecture celebrates Newport Beach’s Cape Cod aesthetic with elegant twists on a variety of nautical themes. Sitting on the site of former City Hall, Lido House is the old-new centerpiece of Newport Beach. Join Marriott TRAVELER as we follow the ins and outs of this iconic hotel from the team behind the design. See <a href="https://acast.com/privacy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">acast.com/privacy</a> for privacy and opt-out information.

Designing Autograph Collection's Lido House - Part 1

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