hospitalitystyle.com

(December 2011) posted on Thu Dec 08, 2011 EST

Predictions that work will pick up are likely to come true

By Mary Scoviak

We’ve been hearing lately that 2012 would be the year that work picked up for designers and architects. That’s not the first time we’ve all been told that the Great Recession was over, but this time it looks like it’s for real. Landmark hotels are seeing that now—while travel is picking up but has not yet hit its next peak—is a good time for a facelift. We’ve already seen some of the high-profile renovations like Claridge’s, but this time it’s a worldwide phenomenon.

Tihany Design is slated to redesign The Oberoi Hotel in New Delhi. The Indian style of Sir Edward Luytens, the building’s original early 20^th-century architect, will be the main inspiration for the design, along with traditional Indian craftsmanship. The renovation should be complete in late 2014.

Closer to home is the newly completed renovation for the Grand Hyatt New York. With a $130 million price tag, it’s certainly a major project.  Looney and Associates created the Manhattan apartment inspired guest rooms, while George Wong Design was commissioned to design the four Premier suites and the Grand Club. The restaurant space, New York Central, is the brainchild of Bentel & Bentel.

But it’s not just mega budget projects that are rebounding. At just $10 milllion, the upcoming renovation of the Swissötel Chicago will be focused on creating a more modern experience for guessts. The Gettys-led design will replace the lobby’s check-in desks with pods.They will also introduce a new food and beverage concept, Amuse, to the lobby of the Harry Weese-designed hotel . The renovation should be complete in March 2012.

Most projects will still be conversions and renovations. But, even in the recession-hit U.S. design firms can look forward to a busier new year for projects both at home and abroad.