Stephanie Chen

🏨 Ran & Morris Creative Partnership and Cumulus have transformed the historic Oscar Maugsch Palace into the Sofitel Bucharest in University Square, Bucharest. Completed with 157 guestrooms, two restaurants, and a spa, the project revamped two buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. A dramatic 46-feet-high skylit lobby draws inspiration from Parisian street life. The design integrates Parisian and Romanian cultural elements, maintaining historical layouts and using Romanian artistry for bespoke furnishings.

🏋️ Equinox King West, designed by Nivek Remas, has opened in Toronto, highlighting the city’s brutalist roots. The reception area features twin terracotta marble desks, wooden paneling, and concrete ceilings. Fitness spaces offer a futuristic look with dynamic lighting and matte concrete. The wellness area includes a black marble island vanity, steam room, sauna, and cold shower. A contrast therapy suite features a deep-heat sauna and cold plunge with heated flooring.

🍴 The Penrose Room at the Broadmoor hotel in Colorado Springs has been redesigned by Tihany Design. The main dining room, Gold Ore, seats 96 guests, with a private extension for 72. Jade Ore caters to 30, while Copper Ore hosts 32. A hidden speakeasy-style polo club adds intrigue. The design melds European formality with Western elements, using artifacts from Spencer and Julie Penrose’s travels, and art from Denver’s American Museum of Western Art.

🍴 OTHER, a design-focused dining venue by the Food District, opened in Dubai's Dar Wasl in 2026. Designed by VERHAAL, the space features a bold cobalt blue and white checkered floor, velvet curtains, and red and blue seating. Elevated wooden platforms and chrome-encased nooks create intimate spaces. Founder Mahmood Al Khamis emphasizes an authentic, uncomplicated atmosphere. This venue transitions from a daytime café to an evening destination, adding a unique option to Dubai's dining scene.

🌴 Kimpton Miralina Resort & Villas, Paradise Valley, Scottsdale, reopens after a $42 million renovation of the former Scottsdale Plaza Resort, led by Trinity Investments and Partners Group. The 40-acre site features 224 redesigned guestrooms, 36 casitas, and will expand to 404 keys this year. It includes chef-led dining, six pools, and 50,000 sq ft of event space. Saguez & Dash designed the resort with desert-inspired aesthetics. Key attractions include the restaurant Hecho Libre by chef Wes Avila and Spa Miralina.

🏡 Norfin Group started building Aroeira Collections by Missoni, marking Missoni's first branded residential project in Portugal. Located over 865 acres near Lisbon, the community includes a central hotel and residences. Architects Atelier Daciano da Costa and Missoni design emphasize landscape integration. There are 28 villas and 40 apartments, with 2028 as the expected completion. Amenities include PGA golf courses, a spa, swimming pools, and more, promoting a pedestrian-friendly lifestyle.

🏇 In 2026, Keeneland in Lexington, Kentucky, will unveil new hospitality spaces during the Spring Meet. The Paddock Building, designed by Matthew Carter, will feature venues like the 1936 Room, Sycamore Room, Dogwood Room, Ivy Room, and The Rooftop. Over 1,000 new dining tickets will be available, offering varied experiences from lounge seating to buffet-style dining and private gatherings. The design harmonizes with Keeneland's historic and park-like setting, enhancing the race-day experience.

🏖️ Guesthouse launches its flagship property in Truckee-Tahoe, Northern California. The 4,000 sq ft main residence includes exclusive services like a private chef and ski access. Designed by Ryan Group Architects, it features 4 bedrooms and 5.5 baths, with communal spaces such as a great room and media room. The home has three decks offering panoramic mountain views. Trevor Cornwell, founder of Guesthouse, emphasizes ease of planning group stays for meaningful connections.