Dylan's Big Style Statement

Dublin's 44-room luxury Dylan is a case study in optimizing revenue generating design.

By Mary Scoviak -- HOTELS Magazine, 4/1/2007

Dublin's 44-room luxury Dylan is a case study in optimizing revenue generating design. A composite of an existing Victorian building and a new-build extension, the capital's newest Preferred Boutique Hotel member required a design concept that could reveal the potential within the myriad angles and corners of the historic spaces while overlaying a clean, modern aesthetic that would maximize reach and capture among high-end travelers looking for a new experience.

"We wanted to promote a visual feel and textured environment that would seduce all who entered," says interior designer HKD's Nigel Howard. He and his team took advantage of the twists and turns to intrigue guests and encourage them to move beyond the lobby into the restaurant and bar. "The end result is a wonderland that tantalizes all of the senses as the guest delves deeper into the space."

To give this smallish footprint big impact, HKD focuses on oversized elements: oversized furniture, overlaid cornice details, a chrome and leather paneled reception desk; a double-sided, mirrored fireplace in the bar and the gleaming pewter bar, designed by Spirit & Style. HKD brought in a lighting consultant "to get the right vibe." But the design team and operator saw marketing opportunities for a vibe that could change throughout the day. "At night we use lots of candles to great a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. It is ideal for promoting the cocktail menu," Howard says.