Hotel tech gets so fresh, so clean

How do you renovate an iconic hotel? Timed to the spring 2025 reopening of New York's Waldorf Astoria, the Wall Street Journal taps three interior designers behind revamps of legendary hotels around the world for their top tips. (Hint: a sexy hotel bar always helps.)

 On the topic of top-notch design, we take a peek at a new luxurious addition to the Miami Design District, courtesy of California's Studio Collective. Plus, a look at the tech upgrade that's keeping things clean, a rustic-chic Palm Springs escape that's grabbing our attention and why small-but-mighty hotels wield so much power. Read on.

Sanctuary Beach offers serene digital detox

 The Sanctuary Beach Resort in Monterey Bay, Calif., has introduced a new Burnout Recovery Journey to help guests alleviate tech fatigue, promoting a "disconnect to reconnect" mindset. The experience features a Relaxation Massage, phone-free relaxation tools and a custom sleep hypnosis audio, alongside activities like yoga, meditation and nature walks. Guests can also enjoy full moon ceremonies and community bonfires, designed to foster relaxation and connection with nature. (Boutique Hotelier)

How indies can flaunt their small-but-mighty flair

 Independent hotels possess distinctive qualities that should be effectively highlighted to attract guests, as discussed in a recent panel at the Independent Hotel Show in Miami. Hotelier Hillary Folkvord emphasized the importance of creating personalized experiences and leveraging local charm, while Ryan Aubin shared insights on curating unique, local amenities and engaging social media presence to enhance guest experiences. Both panelists noted that strategic marketing, including partnerships with online travel agencies and encouraging guest reviews, significantly improved their occupancy rates. (Hotel Management)

Destination of the Week: Sparrows Lodge

Location: Palm Springs, Calif.

Opened in: 2013, after renovations to the original 1952 property.

Owned by: Common Thread Hotels, formerly known as PRG Hospitality Group, the brand behind properties such as White Water Cambria, The Prospect Hollywood and San Luis Creek Lodge.

Number of rooms: 20

What to expect: In a city overflowing with mid-century modernism, Sparrows Lodge is a sleek, minimalist getaway that prides itself on its rustic-chic sensibilities. 

Dining options: The Barn Kitchen is the on-site restaurant offering lunch, dinner and special family-style events throughout the year. Continental breakfast is offered for hotel guests.

What stands out: We love the horse trough-style bathtubs in-room, part of Claire-Marie Astruc Rutledge's redesign in 2022. There's also an impressive art collection on display throughout the hotel, featuring works by the likes of Ed Ruscha and John Baldessari. A premium is placed on relaxation here: in addition to no TVs or phones in room, the property is centered around an Insta-worthy pool. The Spa Tent is tucked away in the back of the property and boasts two massage beds for treatments upon request.

Starting rate: $369 per night. 

Above: The main pool at night. (Courtesy of Jaime Kowal/ Sparrows Lodge)

Sensor solution waves goodbye to sanitation slip-ups

 Hygiene IQ offers sensors that help hotel staff address cleanliness issues, such as refilling soap dispensers or restocking towels, by sending alerts through an app when supplies run low. These sensors can be self-installed by hoteliers in about 15 minutes, connecting via on-property Wi-Fi to notify staff when guests wave their hands for assistance. The technology can also help streamline operations and improve efficiency during challenges with labor shortages in the hospitality industry. (Hotel Dive)

The Moore brings a slice of luxury to SoFlo’s Design District

 The Hotel at The Moore, a luxurious new addition to Miami's Design District, is set to open on October 14 in the restored historic four-story Art Deco building that once served as a pineapple plantation in the 1920s. Featuring 13 spacious suites ranging from 700 to 1,000 square feet, each room boasts a unique design aesthetic while preserving the building's historical charm. The design team at Studio Collective reimagined the property to reflect its origins by incorporating decorative touches that honor its agricultural legacy, allowing guests to appreciate iconic architectural features like the elegant columns and grand staircase. (Travel+Leisure)

Above: The hotel lobby. (Courtesy of Kris Tamburello/The Moore)

💯 Enjoying Mint Pillow? Share it with a friend.
👋 Have a story idea or want to say hello? Email us at newsletter@mintpillow.co