12th November 2021 - Americas:
AHEAD, the Awards for Hospitality Experience and Design, has revealed its winners for its Americas 2021 edition via a virtual award ceremony on the AHEAD website.
The big winner for this edition of AHEAD Americas was the Mexican-based resort, One&Only Mandarina, which was one of two projects to take home more than one award. The resort won the “Landscaping & Outdoor Spaces”, “Resort Hotel” and the illustrious AHEAD Americas “Hotel of the Year”. The other being Circulo Mexicano also located in Mexico.
Here is the full list of winners:
Bar, Club or Lounge
The Catbird at Thompson Dallas
USA
Set in a high-rise building on the ninth floor, the Catbird at The Thompson Dallas is a “moody and vibrant space with a unique collection of art and accessories.” The judges agreed that “the great material choices and multitude of textures make this space a visual delight.”
Event Spaces
Hutton Brickyards
New York, USA
A rambling and imaginative retreat for getaways and events, the Hutton Brickyards cleverly repurposes a unique, one-of-a-kind space. Our judges described the event space as a “simple, elegant and still casual” area which seamlessly integrates into the landscape.
Guestrooms
Círculo Mexicano
Mexico City, Mexico
Circulo Mexicano features 25 rooms, combining Shaker-inspired carpentry with the finest Mexican artisanal textiles. This unique combination caught the eye of our judges as they commented, “detail shows elegance and simplicity, but it is still warm and inviting.”
Hotel Conversion
Lyle Washington DC
USA
Lyle, located in the heart of the Dupont Circle neighbourhood, is known to have a relaxing, calming environment through the design. It’s calming and neutral tones led the judges to agree that in this instance, “Less is more!” as the Lyle exudes an air of relaxed calm.
Hotel New Build
The GoodTime Hotel
Miami, USA
A collaboration between world renowned music artist, Pharrell Williams and entrepreneur David Grutman, The GoodTime Hotel finds itself in the centre of South Beach’s historic Washington Avenue taking up the entire block. Its intimate spaces encourage visitors to explore every corner and tap into their sense of adventure.
Hotel Renovation & Restoration
Union Club Hotel at Purdue University
West Lafayette, USA
The iconic property, built in phases from 1929 till 1953 has taken the “Hotel R&R” award for its “clever details and nice holistic design” injected with a new lease of life thanks to its ambitious restoration project. The judges agreed that the newly renovated design encapsulates “story telling” as it showcases Purdue’s historic legacy.
Landscaping & Outdoor Spaces
One&Only Mandarina
Nayarit, Mexico
One&Only Mandarina is a hidden resort in Riviera Nayarit with undisturbed & awe-inspiring surroundings within the rainforest. The natural landscape is truly magical, consisting of soft white sands, cliffs and life-filled ocean.
Lobby & Public Spaces
The Maker Hudson
New York, USA
The Maker Hudson brings a bespoke experience to travellers from across the globe while also offering a unique experience to those who are native to New York. The property features work from local Hudson Valley craftsmen & an extensive art collection which celebrates the world of makers. The judges commented on the design, stating that it is “beautifully curated with a strong point of view.”
Lodges, Cabins and Tented Camps
Camp Sarika by Amangiri
Canyon Point, USA
“Stand out entry”, “fantastic aesthetic” and “pure camp luxury” were the first thoughts from our judges as the Camp Sarika by Amangiri showcases the “ultimate way of camping. Staying true to the brand and the experience.” Through Camp Sarika, Amangiri brings comfort and privacy to the wilderness experience.
Resort Hotel
One&Only Mandarina
Nayarit, Mexico
One&Only Mandarina is “a great example of breaking down boundaries from inside to outside. The interior materials and outside landscaping lines are beautifully blurred.” The judges sung their praise, agreeing that the project is “beautifully executed” and “feels like you’ve been transported to another place where you can be rejuvenated.”
Restaurant
The Peacock Grill at Austin Proper Hotel
Austin, USA
With a Mediterranean inspired menu, the Peacock Grill at Austin Proper Hotel gives a “fresh and interesting interpretation” of the cuisine through their fresh and unique ideas. The judges felt that the combination of Mediterranean food and wholesome design makes “you feel the concept from every aspect.”
Spa & Wellness
Paradero Todos Santos
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Paradero Todos Santos’ surroundings provide an unforgettable experience for visitors. Guests are invited to embark on a wellness journey rooted in ancient Mexican healing traditions with water-based therapies. The design of the spa itself “brought narrative to life. Beautifully detailed, yet simple and calming.”
Suite
The Joseph Nashville
Nashville, USA
Pet friendly and impeccably designed, the Joseph Nashville’s suite is “beautifully curated but comfortable with exceptional artwork.” The judges were left more than impressed with this suite, “what a visual delight – no detail was left unconsidered, and the art was the cherry on the cake.”
New Concept
Saira Hospitality
Brooklyn, USA
A “very empowering concept” that made our judging panel “wish [they] had thought of it” Saira Hospitality is a “unique concept”, setting an example of where “brand and operator should look to make the hospitality sector more valuable.” This strong concept allows hotels to have a “direct positive impact on their communities.”
Visual Identity
Circulo Mexicano
Mexico City, Mexico
A true example of “less is more’. The Circulo Mexicano’s “quality materials, simple graphics are inviting without being overwhelming” were one of the deciding factors for the judges. The standout feature was the “excellent combination of muted colours with a vibrant pop of orange.”
AHEAD Hotel of the Year
One&Only Mandarina
Nayarit, Mexico
The exotic yet “elegant and refined” resort takes home the prestigious AHEAD Hotel of the Year award. The judges were impressed by the Mexican based resort’s execution, stating that they “would love to visit and experience” the beautiful landscape and architectural elegance.
ABOUT AHEAD
AHEAD celebrates the relentless pursuit of the exceptional in the hospitality industry. The awards recognise design in all its forms, and the guest experiences created in hospitality projects worldwide. Hosted by Sleeper, AHEAD comprises four annual, regional awards schemes run over a two year period, culminating in a global biennale. www.aheadawards.com
ABOUT SLEEPER
Sleeper is the leading magazine for hotel design, development and architecture. Published six times per year, it features unrivalled coverage of the latest projects, products, practices and people shaping the industry. Its core circulation encompasses all those involved in the creation of new hotels, from owners, operators, developers and investors to interior designers, architects, procurement companies and hotel groups. www.sleepermagazine.com
PRESS ENQUIRIES
Kai Dowling | k.dowling@mondiale.co.uk | +44 (0)774535 0716
