A rendering of Waldorf Astoria Doha in Qatar

HBA announces plans for EMEA projects

HBA (Hirsch-Bedner Associates) has revealed plans for its hotel projects in Europe and the Middle East.

The firm’s portfolio includes Waldorf Astoria Doha in Qatar, opening in 2022 ahead of the World Cup. Taking inspiration from Waldorf Astoria New York, the property will feature Art Deco proportions and materials, with bespoke pieces masterminded by HBA itself. The 43-storey hotel will also be bathed in marble, including Amazonite stone, hand-carved plaster, églomisé mirrorwork and hand-painted de Gournay wallpaper.

HBA has announced it is working on the interiors for the new St Regis Marrakech in Morocco too, debuting in 2025. Situated in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, the team has taken cues from the surroundings, capturing its majestic mountain setting. With a nod to the ancient Caravansary architecture, HBA has designed an expansive interior with plate glass windows – a modern interpretation of the Moroccan vernacular – that allows the landscape to become art, blurring the lines between the indoors and out. Housed in four Riads will be the guestrooms, each with their own planted courtyards and individual desert stories.

A rendering of St Regis Marrakech in Morocco
St Regis Marrakech in Morocco

Elsewhere in the Middle East, HBA is behind the extensive refurbishment of Park Hyatt Dubai. With the ambition to reclaim its place as the most private and tranquil retreat in the region, the property will feature elegant rooms and suites synonymous with Park Hyatt’s refined, residential-inspired brand aesthetic.

In London meanwhile, HBA has designed the interiors for The Adria, a Grade-II listed boutique hotel in South Kensington. Slated to reopen in 2022 following a full interior refurbishment, its design will see the interiors of the townhouse lovingly restored to reflect a distinct Britishness that encapsulates its charming location.

Closing 2021 on a high, HBA has completed the interiors for recently launched properties such as St Regis The Palm Dubai, Ritz Carlton Residences Bodrum, and Four Seasons Riyadh, all of which have landed this year.

To support on these projects, HBA has appointed William Evans as Director of HBA Europe. Joining from 1508 London, where he has spent five years building the practice’s portfolio – working with Mandarin Oriental, Rosewood and Jumeriah – Evans brings significant experience and market knowledge to his new role.

Also joining HBA and based out of its Dubai studio is Roy Posey, who previously held the position of Design Director at Wilson Associates. As an Associate, Posey will work on hospitality projects across the Middle East.