The Bedford Hotel, Belfast appoints Mike Gatt as General Manager
The Bedford Hotel has announced the appointment of Mike Gatt as General Manager of the luxury 102-room boutique hotel with an onsite destination restaurant and new café bar due to open in October of this year.
With 40 years’ experience in the hospitality industry, Mike joins The Bedford Hotel from The Maldron, Belfast City Centre where he has been GM for more than seven years. A Director with the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation, Mike is well respected in the sector having held senior positions across many leading hotel chains including the IHG and Dalata Hotel Groups.
Commenting on his new role, Mike said,” My passion for Belfast and commitment to customer-centric approach is matched by the local founders of The Bedford Hotel. That is what attracted me to the role – a shared vision of excellence in service, accommodation, cuisine and an inclusive and welcoming environment for both staff and visitors, within an historic setting that celebrates everything that makes Belfast so special.
“This magnificent building sets the scene for high expectations that I, alongside a carefully selected professional team, will consistently deliver. These are exciting times for Belfast as a tourist destination with a visible revitalisation of the City Centre, and The Bedford Hotel will play a key role in this. To be part of the team creating an exceptional new hospitality destination for both visitors and locals is such a privilege, and I am very much looking forward to welcoming our guests when we open our doors later this year.”
HotelREZ adds 100 Independent Hotels
Leading representation company for independent hotels continues to expand as Galgorm Collection, Classik Hotel Collection, Key Hotels & Resorts, and Viridian Apartments, join its membership
HotelREZ, one of the world’s leading and fastest growing hotel representation companies, adds a further 100 independent hotels and aparthotels to its portfolio, as the demand for strategic distribution and direct booking solutions accelerates.
New additions to the HotelREZ membership include the Galgorm Collection, Classik Hotel Collection, Harte & Garter, Key Hotels & Resorts, Viridian Apartments, Condor Hotels, Rest Group, and Gretna Green Group. These strategic additions further elevate the company’s presence and influence in the global hospitality industry.
With a 20-year strong track record of delivering results, HotelREZ provides a solution for all accommodation sectors – working with hotels, aparthotels and pubs with rooms – expanding its market influence for independent businesses. The growth reflects hoteliers’ increasing need to gain a competitive edge through optimised revenue strategies, seamless GDS access, and enhanced direct booking capabilities.
Mark Lewis, CEO and Founder of HotelREZ, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for the team as we move into our next phase of growth. The numbers demonstrate the value we bring to hoteliers navigating an evolving hospitality landscape. Our hotel partners benefit from our easily-adopted scalable solutions and our extensive global sales network, enabling them to attract a wider audience to maximise their booking potential and profitability. The results we deliver are just one of the many reasons hotels choose to work with HotelREZ.”
With more than 2,500 independent hotels, aparthotels and hotel groups across 100 countries, the HotelREZ Hotels & Resorts portfolio makes it the 16th largest hotel company worldwide.
Discover more about HotelREZ at www.hotelrez.com
The Athenaeum Hotel and Residences Appoints New Head Pastry Chef
NEWLY APPOINTED HEAD PASTRY CHEF, SERGEI KUZMIN, RETURNS TO THE FIVE-STAR HOTEL’S KITCHEN
The Athenaeum Hotel and Residencies has appointed Sergi Kuzmin as its new Head Pastry Chef. Kuzmin brings with him a wealth of expertise, having been in the industry for over 15 years, most recently as Head Pastry Chef at The Excel London before returning to The Athenaeum in February 2025.
After completing his studies at the University of West London, Kuzmin started his culinary career at the famed-five-star hotel, The Savoy, in 2010. It was here that he climbed the ladder from 2nd Commis Pastry Chef to Demi Chef de Partie, working on events such as London Fashion Week and Freddie Mercury’s 65th Birthday Anniversary dinner. He then went on to work in a host of luxury London establishments including Shangri-La The Shard, Rosewood London and Kimpton Fitzroy, initially joining The Athenaeum Hotel and Residences as Head Pastry Chef in 2021. Kuzmin then moved to the role of Head Pastry Chef at The Excel London in 2022 in which he worked on events and dinners ranging from 15 to 30,000 attendees.
On his recent appointment, Kuzmin said "I am thrilled to be returning to The Athenaeum in the role of Head Pastry Chef. There are lots of exciting activations in the pipeline, such as a new afternoon tea, that I can’t wait to get stuck into.”
Kuzmin will work alongside Executive Chef, Kevin Fawkes, to innovate and elevate the hotel’s F&B offering. Crafting exquisite pastries that elevate the guest experience and turn special moments into treasured memories. Along with his day-to-day career, Kuzmin has also been involved in industry competitions, achieving both Gold and Best in Class in the 2011 Salon Culinare Londres Junior Static Plated Dessert competition as well as reaching the finals of the Association of Pastry Chefs Dessert of the Year in 2012.
Embodying five-star luxury with an independent spirit, The Athenaeum Hotel and Residences is an award-winning hotel, located in the heart of Mayfair. Its prime location offers easy access to the West End, the designer boutiques of Bond Street, and the regal Buckingham Palace, making it an ideal temporary 'home' in London. The rooms and suites, adorned with life's indulgences, provide enchanting views of either Green Park or the charming Mayfair streets.
Escapade Silverstone Officially Launches and Challenges Guests to Escape to a Destination Like no Other
- Immersive trackside accommodation
- Designed for racing fans, teams and businesses alike
- 60 private residences with 184 ensuite bedrooms
- The Gallery restaurant and bar open year-round to all guests and visitors to the area
Escapade Silverstone is now officially open and the new state-of-the-art destination is redefining the hospitality experience at one of the world’s most iconic motorsport venues, Silverstone Circuit. Launching in Q3 of 2024, the venue offers an unparalleled stay for motorsport enthusiasts, race teams, and corporate guests seeking a distinctive, high-performance environment. Located within the grounds of Silverstone Circuit, Escapade provides year-round access to the heart of British motorsport— whether visiting for a race weekend, corporate event or a regional getaway with friends and family throughout the year.
Comprising 60 private residences with 184 ensuite bedrooms, Escapade Silverstone offers the ultimate hospitality experience, blending the exclusivity of a private members’ club with the convenience of a high-end hotel. Beyond the residences, guests can enjoy a variety of premium amenities, including a restaurant and bar with trackside views, a rooftop terrace, a wellness centre with performance-led treatments, a 24/7 high-spec gym, and a curated motorsport-inspired art collection.
An Unmatched Trackside Experience
Designed to immerse guests in the racing driver lifestyle, Escapade Silverstone brings a fresh approach to motorsport hospitality. The location allows visitors to stay in trackside residences with direct views of the circuit or opt for a countryside setting with a more tranquil atmosphere. With 2025 marking the 75th anniversary of the British Grand Prix, Escapade offers an unparalleled way to experience the historic Silverstone track.
Each residence combines contemporary design with motorsport-inspired aesthetics, featuring high-quality materials such as warm timber, brass, and intricate metalwork. All accommodations include drive-up parking with EV charging, adaptable open-plan living spaces, and ensuite bedrooms, making them ideal for individuals, teams, and corporate groups.
Accommodation Options:
- Trackside Residences: 1–4-bedroom accommodations with private terraces and direct views of the Silverstone circuit.
- Countryside Residences: 1–2-bedroom residences offering a serene escape, just moments from the track.
- Dual-Aspect Residences: 1–4-bedroom options with both track and countryside views, complemented by expansive roof terraces.
A Destination for Dining and Networking
More than just a place to stay, Escapade Silverstone is the perfect hub for networking, corporate hospitality, social events and dining.
Open year-round to both residents and external guests, The Gallery offers sweeping floor-to-ceiling views of the track. Led by Head Chef Matt Tsistrakis, the menu celebrates the best of British ingredients and locally sourced, seasonal produce. From braised beef cheek to North Sea stone bass with caviar, guests can enjoy expertly crafted dishes in an elegant yet relaxed setting.
Matt Tsistrakis, who trained in London’s most prestigious kitchens—including Simpson’s in The Strand, The Savoy, and The Connaught—brings his classical training and Mediterranean heritage to the menu, balancing bold yet uncomplicated flavours with a commitment to local sourcing. Signature dishes include a cheese soufflé made with Old Winchester cheese, monkfish tail marinated with smoked harissa, and a Negroni soufflé.
Beyond dining, The Gallery is also home to a curated motorsport-inspired art collection led by Art Director Renata Fernandes. The space features rotating exhibitions from established and emerging artists, including ex-racing driver Stefan Johansson, showcasing interpretations of speed and the sensations of racing.
The Gallery is open to all visitors and available for private bookings, making it a sought-after destination for business meetings, celebrations, and post-race dining.
For a more exclusive experience, the Veuve Clicquot Roof Deck provides a stylish space to enjoy panoramic track views while sipping curated cocktails crafted by expert mixologists. Available year-round, this vibrant setting can be booked for private events, networking gatherings, and celebrations, offering a unique backdrop for any occasion.
Wellness and Performance Facilities
Escapade Silverstone features elite wellness and recovery facilities, with treatments typically reserved for professional drivers. Developed in collaboration with Formula Health, the on-site wellness centre, led by Human Performance Osteopath Gemma Fisher, offers services designed to optimise physical and mental performance.
Guests can also access a state-of-the-art gym, a swimming pool, a sauna, and a high-performance training environment, all with views of the track. These facilities cater to both leisure guests and professional teams looking to maintain peak condition.
General Manager John Higham says: “Escapade Silverstone is a game-changer in motorsport and experiential hospitality. Unlike traditional hotels, we offer a fully immersive experience where guests can wake up to the sights and sounds of the track, indulge in outstanding cuisine while taking in panoramic views of Silverstone at The Gallery restaurant, and enjoy exclusive access to high-performance wellness facilities—all surrounded by a world-class art collection. Whether you’re a racing enthusiast, a professional team, or a business looking for an unforgettable setting, Escapade Silverstone offers something truly unique all year round.”
Room prices start from £250. To book, visit https://escapade.silverstone.co.uk.
Northcote Obsession’25 Raises £77,000 for Hospitality Action
22 World Class Chefs
27 Michelin Stars
1,572 Obsession Guests
97 Different Dishes
88 Matched Wines
Northcote Obsession’25 is officially a wrap. With a star-studded line up featuring gastronomy's elite and over £77,000 raised for Hospitality Action, there’s no denying that this year’s epicurean culinary festival was once again a resounding success.
Between 24th January and 9th February, 22 world class chefs with 27 Michelin stars between them visited the Ribble Valley as the annual Northcote Obsession festival celebrated a landmark 25th anniversary, helping to raise a significant amount of money for a charity very close to the heart of Northcote.
Honouring the 25-year milestone, Obsession returned to the culinary stage and firmly cemented its reputation as one of the most prestigious and internationally recognised gourmet festivals in Europe.
Some 1,572 guests enjoyed 97 different dishes with 88 matched wines in a stunning showcase of cuisine from chefs from all over the world. From Paris to Cape Town, Singapore to Denmark, Glasgow, Sussex, London and, of course, Lancashire as Northcote’s own Lisa Goodwin-Allen wowed the Obsession crowds with her usual mix of highly technical yet nostalgic cooking in a menu specially created for the event.
The festival culminated in a visit from highly acclaimed chef Alain Roux of the three Michelin starred The Waterside Inn on Sunday 9th February.
Commenting on Obsession’25, Lisa Goodwin-Allen said: “Obsession has an extraordinary history, and I feel privileged to have been part of that history since day one. Craig Bancroft and Nigel Haworth introduced this extraordinary event in 2001 at Northcote. The concept was unique for the UK and that’s what made it what it is today. I was proud to take over the reins in 2022 and bring collections of innovative chefs and a diverse range of cuisine to Obsession. It has been an honour to lead the 25th anniversary of this special event.
“Over the years I’ve seen so many incredible chefs work their magic on the pass and create everlasting memories for our guests. The passion and the excitement of Obsession is infectious. Beyond the incredible food, Obsession is a social gathering for industry professionals and food enthusiasts, it’s a place to network, connect and share a love for outstanding food and wine. Obsession25 has been extra special for the team, it has been a major milestone and to celebrate we invited some of the world’s best chefs to join us. It has been truly magical and we’re hugely thankful to everyone who made the journey to Northcote and helped to continue the legacy of this amazing event.”
This year, followers of Northcote’s social media accounts on Instagram @northcoteuk and Facebook @NorthcoteUK were treated to a host of behind-the-scenes footage, demonstrating not just the scale and organisational precision it takes to coordinate a festival like Obsession, but also the camaraderie felt by chefs and teams from all over the UK and Europe coming together at this exclusive event.
Below are the thoughts of just some of the chefs who took part in Obsession’25.
Restaurant Pine's chef-owner Cal Byerley said: “Lisa asking us to take part in what is one of the UK's top cooking events was pretty amazing for us both and it was a real honour to be involved.”
Graeme Cheevers, chef patron of UNALOME by Graeme Cheevers in Glasgow shared: “I have always been a fan of the Obsession event and followed it throughout my cooking career. Last year my wife asked if we could go to the 2025 event…months later I was asked to take part. It is a great event showcasing great chefs from all over the UK and further afield, bringing them together at Northcote. Scotland has fantastic ingredients, so I was delighted to be able to show these off in my dishes.”
Terre, Castlemartyr Resort in Cork’s head chef/found Vincent Crepel added: “I was very thankful for the chance to join the Obsession event in the UK. It was a wonderful opportunity to share a bit of what we do at Terre with the British market, and was truly inspiring to be among such talented chefs from near and far.”
Hélène Darroze & Marco Zampese of three-star Hélène Darroze at The Connaught in London concluded: “The British Isles have some of the finest produce in the world, and Obsession helps us keep that front and centre. It's always such a diverse lineup of chefs, and it was a privilege to come together to celebrate that in such a beautiful area of the country.”
For more information visit northcoteobsession.com.
PPDS Brings Instant Sustainability Benefits to Hotels as Philips Signage EcoDesign Becomes First Digital Display to be Awarded EPEAT Climate+ Gold Certification
Bringing ultra-low energy and highly sustainable digital signage solutions to hotels, bars and restaurants, 50” Philips Signage 3650 EcoDesign QE-Line display – which uses 50 per cent less power versus other comparable 4K Ultra HD models – has been officially certified as meeting the most demanding set of criteria for sustainability leadership in electronics.
PPDS, the exclusive global provider of Philips Professional Displays and complementary solutions, is delighted to announce that its groundbreaking, ultra low power, 50” Philips Signage 3650 EcoDesign has become the first digital signage display to be awarded EPEAT Climate+ Gold designation, with more models set to follow.
The acclaimed Philips Signage 3000 Series EcoDesign, an ideal solution for hospitality environments – from hotel lobbies to bars, restaurants, cafes, gift shops and more – is PPDS’ debut digital signage offering designed with the company’s evolutionary EcoDesign methodology. This sees the implementation of new manufacturing processes, physical features, materials, packaging, and built in software that are kinder to the environment and deliver better energy efficiency.
Delivering uncompromised high impact 4K performance while consuming 50 per cent less* energy versus comparable premium digital signage models, the Philips Signage 3000 Series EcoDesign has already received among the industry's lowest energy label ratings (E on the 50" model, D on the 55" and C on the 65" models) and was initially awarded an EPEAT Climate+ Silver designation.
EPEAT is the world’s premier eco label for electronics, measuring the social and environmental impacts of products from extraction to end-of-life, while also certifying they have met 100 per cent of the Climate Criteria plus at least 50 per cent of the existing optional criteria. These include:
- Climate: Reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the manufacturing supply chain and product use.
- Circularity: How products are designed for reuse and recycling, and which ones responsibly address packaging, water, and waste.
- Chemicals of concern: Eliminating the use of toxic chemicals that are hazardous to human health and the environment.
- Responsible supply chains: The responsible sourcing of materials, fair labour practices, and worker health and safety in the electronics supply chain.
EPEAT helps to support and promote more informed, sustainable-driven buying decisions, providing access to a free online Registry, identifying and detailing products from the broadest range of manufacturers across the globe.
The Gold standard
As a globally recognised leader and advocate for innovating sustainability driven AV hardware and software solutions – including implementing the latest packaging designs and technological breakthroughs into existing products for advanced performance and energy efficiencies – the 50” Philips Signage 3000 EcoDesign meets the most demanding set of criteria for sustainability leadership in electronics, with the 55” and 65” set to follow.
Bart Wouters, International Product Manager at PPDS, commented: “At PPDS, the environment and sustainability are at the core for our product development, from the initial designs, right the way through to manufacturing, delivery, and post installation. With the Philips Signage 3000 EcoDesign Series, we achieved a major industry milestone in gaining EPEAT Climate+ Silver. As with all our products, we continued in our pursuit for more. And now this groundbreaking product achieved even better, with EPEAT Climate+ Gold.”
The best got better
Continuing to innovate, and to overcome the challenges customers are facing in the marketplace, the Philips Signage 3000 Series EcoDesign benefits significantly from PPDS’ ongoing strategy to reduce wastage – including plastic – from its packaging, delivered in 90% recycled and 100% recyclable materials, with the removal of paper-based manuals and instructions.
In addition, all plastic bags have been removed, while the use of polystyrene has been replaced with innovative cushioning made using 100 per cent recycled carton, maintaining the same high levels of safety and protection of the product.
Furthermore, the Philips 3000 Series EcoDesign – part of PPDS’ growing Android SoC family – can be managed either manually, or entirely remotely, using third party software or PPDS’ range of in-house solutions, including the Philips Wave remote device management ecosystem.
Just getting started
Andrea Barbuti, Global Product Management Lead for EMEA at PPDS, added: “The scrutiny of our products for their sustainability features doesn’t end when we launch a new display. That is still very much the beginning. Tracking the performance of a range, checking the product life cycle, and working for better and more. It is all very much on our radar. With Android SoC, we strive to update and enhance at every opportunity and, as we unearth innovations and methodologies to help enhance performance and energy efficiencies, we work to include these in our existing models, as well as our brand new ones.
“We are immensely proud the 50” Philips Signage 3650 EcoDesign has been recognised with EPEAT Climate+ Gold certification. My thanks and congratulations go to our full team for the continued hard work in setting new standards and striving for a brighter and more sustainable future in AV.”
To learn more about Philips Professional Displays, please visit the website here, or contact your local PPDS sales manager.
*50% reduction in power when compared again the Philips Signage 3650 Q-Line, and comparable solutions in the market.
room2 Belfast partners with McConnell’s Distillery for St Patrick’s Day 2025
This St Patrick’s Day, room2 Belfast are launching an exciting new partnership with McConnell's Distillery, one of Northern Ireland's oldest whisky brands. The net-zero hometel is collaborating with McConnell's to bring guests and visitors exclusive cocktails available at room2’s Winnie’s Bar between 15th - 17th March 2025. The specialised drinks on offer includes the exclusive ‘McConnell’s Whisky in the Gaol’, crafted from McConnell’s Irish Whisky 5 Year, elderflower, lime, sugar syrup, all served in a tumbler with ice, fresh basil & cucumber as well as the ‘McConnells and Ginger’ cocktail, available to those checking in for the weekend.
Opened in 2024, the local state-of-the-art distillery and visitor experience offers guided tours, interactive exhibits, tasting sessions, as well as housing a café and bar where guests can sample McConnell's award-winning whiskies. For those already planning on making a trip to McConnell’s this year, enjoy 10% off stays at room2 Belfast, to truly get the best and most eco-friendly experience the city has to offer. As an additional bonus, guests of room2 Belfast will receive exclusive access to a 20% discount code to visit the distillery within the historic Crumlin Road Gaol in Belfast.
Discount code terms and conditions apply. Visitors of McConnell’s Distillery 10% off stays at the hometel, only redeemable with online bookings and cannot be applied to food, drink or special offers on property. The ‘McConnell' s Whisky in the Gaol’ cocktail will be available onsite at room2 Belfast for £10. Hotel images can be found here. Cocktail images can be found here.
New Medical Expert Appointed at Grand Resort Bad Ragaz to Devise Innovative Medical Treatments
The new appointment highlights the resort's continued position as one of Europe’s leading luxury wellbeing & healthy living resorts, offering its guests new, holistic approaches to long-term health and sustainable wellbeing.
Grand Resort Bad Ragaz announces the appointment of Dr. Alexandra Dopplinger, who will take over the medical management of the resort-owned Healthy Living Centre from February 17, 2025 and will become a member of the extended management of the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz Group. In this role, she is responsible for realigning the resort's medical services towards prevention, regeneration and personalised medicine. As an experienced medical expert, Dr. Dopplinger has the ideal experience to play a decisive role in shaping the new health strategy of Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, which will be launched in the summer.
Dr. Dopplinger is an expert who has been working on preventative medicine, and regenerative treatments for many years. Her specialisation in orthopedics and trauma surgery is a crucial foundation for specialist knowledge in conservative orthopedics, pain therapy, mobilisation therapy and acupuncture: allowing for a holistic approach tailored to the resort's new health strategy.
“I was immediately impressed by the ambition of Grand Resort Bad Ragaz to combine prevention, regeneration and personalised medicine at the highest level,” explains Dr. Dopplinger. “I look forward to working with the team to design a holistic health concept that will help guests maintain their vitality and quality of life in the long term.”
As of February 17, 2025, Dr. Dopplinger heads the Healthy Living Centre at the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, leading the team in devising innovative, holistic treatments designed to continue one’s wellbeing journey, long after a visit to Grand Resort Bad Ragaz.
This strategic appointment of Dr. Dopplinger follows the long history of Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, a leading luxury wellness and spa resort, with the resort’s overarching goal being a place of power for generations in the area of regeneration and prevention in the future. The future health offerings will be embedded in an exceptional environment that promotes both physical and mental recovery: from the healing power of the Tamina Therme spring to innovative medical programmes and award-winning cuisine and luxurious spa offerings.
Grand Resort Bad Ragaz combines medical excellence with a unique feel-good atmosphere. “Our goal is to offer guests the best possible support to maintain their long-term health – and to do so at an exceptionally high level that is rarely found in Europe,” says Dr. Klaus Tschütscher, Executive Chairman of Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, adding: “With the appointment of Dr. Dopplinger and the consistent focus on holistic health and well-being, Grand Resort Bad Ragaz sets new standards in the field of preventative medicine - and creates a place where guests can not only relax, but actively invest in their long-term health.”
room2 Belfast partners with McConnell’s Distillery for St Patrick’s Day 2025
This St Patrick’s Day, room2 Belfast are launching an exciting new partnership with McConnell's Distillery, one of Northern Ireland's oldest whisky brands. The net-zero hometel is collaborating with McConnell's to bring guests and visitors exclusive cocktails available at room2’s Winnie’s Bar between 15th - 17th March 2025. The specialised drinks on offer includes the exclusive ‘McConnell’s Whisky in the Gaol’, crafted from McConnell’s Irish Whisky 5 Year, elderflower, lime, sugar syrup, all served in a tumbler with ice, fresh basil & cucumber as well as the ‘McConnells and Ginger’ cocktail, available to those checking in for the weekend.
Opened in 2024, the local state-of-the-art distillery and visitor experience offers guided tours, interactive exhibits, tasting sessions, as well as housing a café and bar where guests can sample McConnell's award-winning whiskies. For those already planning on making a trip to McConnell’s this year, enjoy 10% off stays at room2 Belfast, to truly get the best and most eco-friendly experience the city has to offer. As an additional bonus, guests of room2 Belfast will receive exclusive access to a 20% discount code to visit the distillery within the historic Crumlin Road Gaol in Belfast.
Discount code terms and conditions apply. Visitors of McConnell’s Distillery 10% off stays at the hometel, only redeemable with online bookings and cannot be applied to food, drink or special offers on property. The ‘McConnell' s Whisky in the Gaol’ cocktail will be available onsite at room2 Belfast for £10. Hotel images can be found here. Cocktail images can be found here.
Sneak Peek - Harp Design Unveils HRC's Vision Stage 2025
Returning to HRC, part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week, for the third year in a row, Harp Design is once again behind the stunning aesthetic of the Vision Stage, in partnership with Future Menus by Unilever Food Solutions, the show’s hub for expert hospitality discussions.
This year, the team has drawn inspiration from the growing conversation around neurodiversity, creating a space that’s not only visually striking but also designed to be welcoming and accessible to all.
In this exclusive sneak peek, Harp Design Founder Hayley Roy shares the story behind this year’s concept, how they’ve woven sustainability into their approach, and what they predict for the future of hospitality design in 2025.
Harp Design are back for a third year designing the Vision Stage at HRC! What do you enjoy about this project?
At Harp Design, we look forward to the HRC event all year long! It’s always a pleasure to collaborate with such an incredible team, and we’re so grateful that they continue to ask us to contribute. Designing the Vision Stage is a highlight for us each year, especially because we love incorporating the latest trends into our designs. This year, we’re particularly excited about the theme we’ve chosen—it’s something that truly resonates with everyone. Bringing our vision to life with the help of our favourite suppliers is always such a rewarding experience, and it’s amazing to see it all come together for everyone to enjoy.
Tell us about this year’s design and where the theme came from
This year’s design for HRC is deeply inspired by a topic that is important not only to us, but to everyone: Neurodiversity. As awareness around neurodiversity grows, we couldn’t be happier to see more people learning about it. It’s a subject that’s close to our hearts, and we understand firsthand the challenges many people face, especially in public spaces. For this design, we set out to create an all-inclusive and neurodiverse-friendly environment. From considering those sensitive to textures and bright colours, to providing soft lighting for those with anxiety, we’ve really thought about every detail.
Our goal is to show that it’s possible to design a beautiful space that’s welcoming and accessible to everyone, no matter their needs.
Why is it important to keep topics like neurodiversity in mind when designing hospitality spaces?
It’s crucial to keep neurodiversity in mind when designing hospitality spaces because we want everyone to feel included and welcomed. No one should have to worry about whether they’ll be comfortable or able to enjoy their experience at a restaurant or other hospitality venues. By creating spaces that are thoughtful and accessible, we’re helping ensure that everyone feels safe and at ease. Ultimately, we believe this approach not only fosters inclusivity but also enhances the appeal of these spaces, attracting a wider range of people who can enjoy the environment without concern.
How is sustainability incorporated into this year’s design?
Sustainability is always a key focus in our designs, and this year is no exception. We believe it’s essential to consider the environment in every aspect of our work. For this design, we’ve incorporated eco-friendly fabrics and recycled materials to demonstrate that it’s possible to create a beautiful, functional space while also being mindful of our planet. By prioritising sustainability, we hope to inspire others to think about the impact of their choices as well.
Who are some of the key suppliers supporting the design for the stage this year?
All of our suppliers play a crucial role in bringing this design to life, and we couldn’t have created such a beautiful space without each and every one of them. A special thank you goes out to two suppliers who have been particularly instrumental in supporting us this year: Carter Newlove Interiors and Carlick Furniture. Carter Newlove has been essential in building and placing the features of the design on the stage – we truly couldn’t have done it without them. Meanwhile, Carlick has supplied much of the furniture, and as we all know, no design is complete without the right furnishings to tie everything together.
What developments do you think we’ll see in hospitality design in 2025?
In 2025, I believe we’ll see a continued emphasis on creating more inclusive, sustainable, and tech-driven experiences in hospitality design. With a growing focus on neurodiversity and accessibility, we can expect spaces to become even more thoughtful and adaptable, offering environments that cater to diverse needs.
Sustainability will remain a key factor, with more use of eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient designs, and a stronger push for water efficiency. We’ll likely see innovative water-saving solutions integrated into spaces, such as low-flow fixtures and rainwater harvesting systems. Additionally, technology will play a bigger role, with smart features that enhance the guest experience, like personalised lighting or climate control. It’s all about designing spaces that are not only beautiful but also functional, adaptable, and mindful of the world we live in.
Do Harp Design have any exciting current or upcoming projects you’d like to shout about?
We have so many exciting projects in the pipeline right now, but one that we're particularly proud of is the refurbishment of the Fusiliers Bar at the Tower of London.
Being able to contribute to such an iconic building and venue, which holds so much historical significance, has been an incredible experience. We’re so grateful to be working with such a fantastic team and amazing clients on this project.
Another exciting project, though still under wraps for privacy reasons, is a restaurant collaboration with a celebrity chef. She has a clear vision for the space, and we’re thrilled to be part of the process in bringing it to life. We can’t wait to see what this year holds for Harp Design, and we hope you’ll join us on the journey!
HRC takes place alongside IFE Manufacturing, IFE, The Pub Show, and International Salon Culinaire as part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week on 17-19 March 2025 at Excel London. Find out more, and register for your complimentary trade ticket, at hrc.co.uk.