We meet design studio Cocoon & Bauer, returning as a design partner to the Independent Hotel Show 2023. Having previously brought the innovative Inclusive Hotel Room feature to life in 2022 at the Independent Hotel Show, this year Cocoon & Bauer is tackling the show’s Members Suite, an area for leading hoteliers to network, relax and do business.

Peter Turner, owner of the studio, unveils this year’s design and discusses some of the inspirations behind it.

What is Cocoon & Bauer known for? 

We are an interior design studio based in Yarm, North Yorkshire. We cover all sectors of the design industry, from high-end residential and hospitality to retail and workplace design!

What do you enjoy about working with the independent hotel sector?

Working with independent hotels allows us to be more creative. You usually find you are dealing directly with the owner/managing director and can really develop a thorough and interesting brief that captures their aspirations and requirements.

Why has Cocoon & Bauer decided to work with the Independent Hotel Show for the second time this year?

We loved the entire process last year. It was so much fun! The preparation, the development on site, the open days and chatting to clients, it was a fantastic few days. This year we wanted more of that, but also loved the idea of being tasked with the Members Suite and what we could bring to this space.

This year you’re taking on the Members Suite, what made you pick this feature at the show? 

We were offered it! Following on the fantastic design last year for the Inclusive Hotel Room, [Independent Hotel Show Event Manager] Glenn Wallace approached us to look at the Members Suite so it had the same dramatic impact the bedroom did last year. I think it gives us even more scope to show our talents and make it the place to be this coming year.

What was the brief for this area?

To provide a collaborative and private area for clients, hoteliers and stand users to network, meet and relax in.

Tell us a bit about the planned design for the Suite – what are some of the design features we’ll be seeing and what inspired the design?

We love what we’ve produced! I wanted the Members Suite to be anything you wanted it to be and to resemble nothing. This seems a strange aesthetic to aim for, but I wanted it to be all things; a lobby, a bar, a lounge, a rooftop terrace – anything. It shows the ability for any space to become what you need from it by using correct furniture in a clever layout with the right finishes and accessories.

Are there any suppliers you’d like to shout out?

Once again, our contacts within the industry have been amazing in assisting us with the project.

Special shout-out goes to Tarkett Flooring, Ocee Design, AQ Form, Vepa, Panaz Fabrics and our brilliant shop-fit partners Nuvoke who once again are fitting the stand for us.

The Independent Hotel Show takes place on 16-17 October at Olympia London.