Hyatt Capital Gate, Abu Dhabi

The recently opened Hyatt Capital Gate caught my attention the other day.

The hotel is located in one of Abu Dhabi's most iconic buildings which actually leans by 18 degrees. ..apparently that’s more than the leaning tower of Pisa! It occupies the 18^th to 33^rd floors of the Capital Gate building, with floor to ceiling windows - perhaps one to avoid if you aren’t so comfortable with heights!

Despite the curvaceous exterior, the interior is much more linear with strong architectural lines forming the backbone to the design.  This is primarily a business hotel and given the extensive use of hard materials (glass and marble), I’m guessing this place is going to attract some serious no-nonsense business guests!  However, despite the apparent lack of “soft touches” (I guess if you are a business man or woman, perhaps you need that steely environment in which to harness your deals!), I was totally drawn in by the exceptional lighting, which throughout the spaces has been used to achieve various effects. Different types of lighting can be seen to be highlighting the reception desk, creating a talking point in the public dining area as well as illuminating the architectural lines of the building. Even the choice of lighting in the pool has been specifically chosen to evoke a certain feeling with the starry sky effect, whereas the vast scale and sculptural nature of the chandeliers act as art.

In my opinion the use of lighting throughout this hotel contributes a huge part to the overall design.

I’ve not been to Abu Dhabi, but when I do, I shall certainly be making a point of staying here….for research purposes, obviously!

The Exterior

The Entrance

Reception

Outdoor Pool

18 Degrees Terrace

Profiterole - they serve pastries in this area!

Lounge

Ralph Lauren Spring Collection 2012

Last Friday I was invited to preview the latest homeware collection for Ralph Lauren Home. I loved it so much that I had to share it with you. In my opinion, everyone needs a bit of Ralph in their lives. It's the details that make his work so good.
A personal favourite was the Dessert Collection - understated luxury, soft linens, crisp whites softened with warm camels....

This bed is ready to dive into!

 The subtle fringing on this cushion adds interest without being too fussy.

 A favourite lamp of mine now comes in this dark oil rubbed bronze finish - a brass that is hand finished with a bronze patina, providing a perfect contrast against a neutral scheme. I just think that the mix of contemporary with classical creates such a sophisticated look. These lamps have an industrial feel to them which works so well when placed with more classically styled pieces.

 

From lighting to Navajo inspired designs. These rugs provide colour, pattern and warmth to a luxuriously neutral scheme like this. In fact, I can see these rugs injecting colour to a lot of homes as they have a pattern that is actually very versatile to many interior styles. It's all about layering!

Great Plains Maverick hand knotted rug

Plains Creek - Dessert Cream rug

The Taos warm oat rug

I also have to share with you the new Dessert crockery collection that follows the same simplicity as the bed linens.....just add sunshine to compete the look!

The Arlin platinum bowl is perfect for adding that finishing touch to your table.