Hotel Openings

🏠 Dawid Konieczny redesigned a 55-square-meter Warsaw apartment, originally built in the 1950s by Jerzy Gieysztor and Jerzy Kumelowski. Located in Warsaw's Praga district, the apartment features Alpi veneer and honey-colored oak parquet. Konieczny reconfigured the spaces, including a new west-facing bedroom and an open-plan living area. Crafted details include a custom California Burr veneer shelving unit, angular dining chairs, and a low-slung bed frame. The bathroom features gridded tiles with a crimson-red sink.

🍴 Norman’s Japanese Grill opened on August 1, 2025, in Dallas, replacing the closed Homewood Restaurant in the Oak Lawn neighborhood. Duro Hospitality, known for original restaurant concepts, launched this Western-inspired Japanese raw bar and grill. The 3,100-square-foot space accommodates 105 patrons, including a seven-seat sushi bar and outdoor patio. Dishes blend Japanese and American West influences, offering nigiri, sashimi, and wood-fired specialties. Cocktails feature Japanese spirits, American whiskeys, and tequilas.

🏨 Guildford's Harbour Hotel undergoes a £3 million refurbishment, transforming all 183 rooms by summer 2025. The first phase revamps 72 rooms, enhancing them with luxury interiors and modern technology. Guests enjoy amenities like complimentary in-room gin and Smart TVs. The hotel also supports the local YMCA by donating beds. This initiative is part of Harbour Hotels’ broader update across its 14 UK properties, reflecting commitment to luxury and community engagement.

🍴 September, Lilibet’s opens at 17 Bruton Street, Mayfair. Ross Shonhan launches this 160-cover restaurant, offering exquisite seafood in a setting inspired by British elegance. With dishes tracing an imaginary Grand Tour, the menu features creations like whole turbot pil pil and lobster bisque. Designed by Russell Sage Studio, Lilibet’s reflects a timeless charm with handcrafted elements. The venue will include an Oyster Bar, outdoor terrace, and Cocktail Bar, with bookings available online.

🌊 December 12, 2025, in Jukkasjärvi, ICEHOTEL 36 will open, with 29 artists from 9 countries crafting a 2,800-square-meter hotel using 2,000 tons of Torne River ice. New features include art suites like "Sweep Me Off My Feet" and "Spaghettification." Experience Northern Lights, ice sculptures, and ICEBAR. In mid-November, construction begins, and ICEHOTEL 365 remains open year-round. Explore dog sledding, Northern Lights safaris, and savor local cuisine.

🎨 Lough Erne Resort, 12th-14th September 2025, hosts a "Sketch & Stay" retreat with artist Eamon Colman in Fermanagh Lakelands. Guests enjoy art masterclasses, luxury breakfasts, and a visit to Hambly & Hambly at Dunbar House. Includes a two-night stay, Thai Spa access, and meals. Booking starts at £565 per person, with single occupancy rates available. Call +44(0)28 6632 3230, quoting "Hambly" to book.

🍾 August 2025, at Fairmont Windsor Park, The Library will transform into a Japanese Whisky and Sushi Bar. This space offers a curated collection of whiskies, including rare varieties from Yamazaki, Nikka, and Hakushu. Chef Giri, with experience from Moka London and Buddha Bar, crafts the sushi menu. The bar offers sake and Japanese-inspired cocktails. The setting features an ornate fireplace and a library bookcase, creating a sophisticated experience for guests.

🏨 Temple Bar Hotel in Dublin has joined The Unlimited Collection by Ascott in 2025. It features 136 rooms, three food and beverage venues, including the Toast Restaurant and Buskers Bar, and a sports bar with 24 screens. The hotel is the second in the UK and Ireland to join the collection. The U Shop offers local products and souvenirs. This addition emphasizes Ascott's focus on authentic, culturally rich experiences in key cultural hubs.