EDITOR'S LETTER: The Brit List Awards 2019

In a heavily congested international hotel design scene that, according to STR, has grown by 18 per cent in the last decade, I’ve realised that there will never be enough resources in the world for any publication to write about it all. As such, the fear of missing out (or FOMO for short) is a common symptom on the editorial desk that I have learnt to manage. 

I don’t take it personally when I am quizzed on my method for securing content and how I commission the features, hotel reviews and interviews that are published on Hotel Designs. 

Although the industry’s landscape has expanded, my technique as an editor remains, like the shelf life the majority of this year’s ‘trends’, short and sweet. The truth is, I’m looking for a meaningful design story – and it is as simple as that. It can be a brave steer away from conventional design that captures my attention. Or perhaps it is a concept – a mere, raw and unpolished idea – that I take a risk on, believing it will be worth following from concept through to completion. But what never fails to inspire me – and what makes the best job in the world that much more thrilling - are the designers, architects and hoteliers I am privileged to meet along the way.

The pages of The Brit List 2019 are therefore reserved for the leaders of our industry who are operating in the great international design hub of Britain, which someone once described to me as an incubator of strong ideas. 

Our annual nationwide search started earlier this year, when my inbox became overwhelmed by the quality and quantity of applications for this year’s list and awards. It was at that moment when I felt in my heart that The Brit List had truly arrived – and that this year’s judges had their work cut out for them.

The final 75 names referenced in this carefully curated list have proven themselves to be leading the interior design, architecture and hospitality scene in Britain and beyond.

“Creating conversations like no other,” and “defining the point on international hotel design,” are two of our core values and aims of the newly branded Hotel Designs. Right now, in this moment, that is about turning the page and celebrating the individuals who raising the ceiling of creativity, keeping our industry fresh of ideas and forging a clear path in the wake of legends for others to follow. 

Congratulations to all the winners!

Click here to read The Brit List 2019.

Click here to read the winners' story on Hotel Designs.

Some images from the night.

Hamish Kilburn 

Editor, Hotel Designs