Investors Subscribe to Purchase Equity in Lebanon Premier Western Ranch and Resort

An innovative resort venture which promises authentic western log cabins, horses and a Dallas Style Mud Wrestling ring complete with mechanical bulls and horses opens up share offering to private investors to own equity in a 65 unit resort in the mountains of Lebanon.

Few countries in the world today can boast a 30% increase in tourism and real estate values other than Lebanon.

The Ministry of Tourism has declared a surge in demand for hotel rooms, with number like 20,000 additional rooms could be added in the next five years.

Brand hotels such as Movenpick, Four Seasons, Intercontinental have all planted their roots firmly in the the Playground of the Middle East, and building is brisk and the market is dynamic.

However, one new development, under planning stages seems to stand out among the new projects planned for tourism and real estate development outside the capital, Beirut.

Dukesville as it is called, is a real American style western ranch, complete with horses and real Dallas Texas style modern saloon, with mechanical bulls, mud wrestling, line dancing, muscle cars, and the first drag racing track in the country.

The project is the brainchild a Chekri Helou, a native Lebanese who was inspired by the old wild western traditions during his living experiences in the USA.

Mr. Helou is no stranger to the Western Ranch business. He was one of the founders of another venue in Lebanon 3 years before, leaving that successful enterprise to complete his vision of a full hotel and ranch community in a more popular location.

Authentic Resort Entertainment, SAL will develop 65 units in the hills of Lebanon on a 42,000 metre parcel that enjoys views that tourists would die for, says Bassim Matta, Chairman of the Group.

The company has undertaken an agreement with an international hotel management company to operate the hotel aspect, and is in the process of accepting subscriptions from the public sector to allow individuals to become partners in this unique log cabin hotel resort.

Individuals may apply for cabin partnership and receive the lions share of the revenue, while also enjoying usage benefits annually. We predict on a worst case scenario the return on investment will be between 18% to 24% annually, says Matta.

Lebanon has proven it is resilient to geo political tension, and has always bounced back from what others may perceive as doom, but what the Lebanese have become to accept as everyday life in one of the most panoramic country sceneries in the world.

Situated 20 minutes from world class ski slopes and 20 minutes from spectacular beaches, Dukesville in Ajaltoun will attract 80 percent of its market share from the local market. Our clients love their children, but also demand the bet of entertainment when it comes to their own precious leisure time.

Our purpose built Western Star Saloon will knock the boots off of anyone who dares to try to sit quietly during one of our stunning shows. We are able to accommodate 150 persons in our boutique western style resort accommodation, and 300 persons per night in our restaurant ,saloon entertainment center.

We have appointed World Class Group, leaders in leisure resort consulting to guide the resort through the stages of hospitality development and investment products, including a form of shared ownership through condo hotel licensing.

According to Michael J. Tolan, CEO of World Class Group,” the project will meet its 10,000,000 required capitalization through small and medium investors who will benefit from the spectacular attractions that will drive traffic to this theme park resort.”

“Phase one of the project will open in 2010, and the resort completion, including a full amenity package which promises many surprises to the market, will finalize in 2011.

“Investors may participate in the ownership of the resort for as little as 18,000 usd.”

For Further Information, contact Michael J. Tolan, CEO, World Class Group on mjt@worldclass-uae.com

Wyndham Vacation Resorts at National Harbor Expands Company’s Metropolitan Portfolio

Wyndham Vacation Ownership, the world’s largest vacation ownership company and a member of the Wyndham Worldwide family of companies (NYSE: WYN), today announced it has welcomed its first CLUB WYNDHAM® Plus owners to its highly anticipated urban property – Wyndham Vacation Resorts at National Harbor.  In development for more than three years, this 250-unit resort is the company’s second resort in the popular Washington D.C. market, joining Wyndham Old Town Alexandria.

“Our nation’s capital has always been a popular vacation destination.  Wyndham Old Town Alexandria was wildly successful when it opened in 1999 and it remains one of our most popular resorts so it was a natural decision to double our presence in this market,” said Franz Hanning, president and chief executive officer, Wyndham Vacation Ownership. ”The fact that our National Harbor property is more than 75% sold out is a testament to the popularity of our urban properties and the Washington D.C. area.”

Situated within National Harbor – a 300-acre waterfront community in Prince George’s County, Md. on the banks of the Potomac River – this purpose-built resort property features 250 condominium-style, fully furnished units, including 42 opulent, presidential suites.  Built in an 11-story tower, the resort also boasts an expansive health and fitness club, indoor and outdoor heated swimming pools, an outdoor terrace with a spa and wading pool as well as a recreation room.  Owners and guests will also enjoy the ever-growing popular urban vacation experience by having immediate access to the wide variety of shopping and dining options within the National Harbor complex, such as McCormick & Schmick’s, Dolce Enoteca, Ketchup, Grace’s Mandarin and Rosa Mexicano.

Located just minutes from the countless landmarks and attractions of Washington D.C., Wyndham Vacation Resorts at National Harbor, which will operate within the company’s CLUB WYNDHAM Plus exchange program, caters to a growing travel trend among timeshare owners to take vacations to major metropolitan centers.  In an owner survey, Wyndham owners indicated that nine of the top ten destinations they’d like to visit next are urban.

National Harbor was still being built when we bought,” said Eva and Al James of Oxford, NC, CLUB WYNDHAM Plus owners. “The location of the capital was a draw and the resort is right in the heart of the action.”

This resort property is the latest addition to the company’s portfolio of urban resorts, which are designed to offer owners convenient access to the exciting shopping, dining and nightlife located in or near the epicenters of major metropolitan destinations throughout the United States, Canada and Australia.  The company also boasts properties in other popular urban markets, including San Francisco, Calif., Seattle, Wash., Las Vegas, Nev., San Antonio, Texas, Vancouver, BC and Sydney, Australia.

About Wyndham Vacation Ownership
Wyndham Vacation Ownership, a member of the Wyndham Worldwide (NYSE: WYN) family of companies, is the world’s largest vacation ownership business, as measured by the number of vacation ownership resorts, individual vacation ownership units and owners of vacation ownership interests.  Wyndham Vacation Ownership develops, markets and sells vacation ownership interests and provides consumer financing to owners through its three primary consumer brands, Wyndham Vacation Resorts, WorldMark by Wyndham, and Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific.   As of January 1, 2009, Wyndham Vacation Ownership had developed or acquired approximately 150 vacation ownership resorts throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and the South Pacific that represent approximately 20,000 individual vacation ownership units and more than 830,000 owners of vacation ownership interests. Wyndham Vacation Ownership is headquartered in Orlando, Fla., and is supported by approximately 13,800 employees globally.

About National Harbor
National Harbor is a community unlike any other in the D.C. region, designed to take full advantage of the most historic river in the nation.  Rising from the banks of the Potomac River just south of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge in Prince George’s County, Md., National Harbor is a 300-acre, mixed-used development designed to include five hotels (including the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center), thousands of residential and office units, tree-lined promenades with scores of shops and restaurants, a marina and much more.

Global Connections, Inc. (GCI) one of the nation’s most respected travel clubs, has recently assumed responsibility for the property management and onsite rental program for the whole ownership condo/hotel units at the Beso Del Sol Resort in Dunedin, Florida.

Located on the Gulf Coast of Southwest Florida, Beso Del Sol, one of five company-owned resorts, was acquired in July 2008. After its purchase, the waterfront property enjoyed a multi-million dollar renovation project of the nearly 80 units and common areas.

GCI will provide all condominium maintenance and housekeeping services on behalf of the developer as the resort’s property management company. Additionally, the on-site rental and guest services office will be professionally managed and staffed by GCI employees for owners desiring to participate in their program. GCI has an impressive record of success with the development and management of numerous resort properties and over 300 individually owned condo units throughout the U.S. and beyond.

GCI will be utilizing internet-marketing distribution channels for the promotion of its onsite rental inventory. There will be a new marketing focus on weddings and special events.

Selected as General Manager of the Beso Del Sol Resort is Lou Anne Karlin, a veteran of more than five years in the hospitality arena. Karlin previously handled sales, marketing and special events planning for a large international non-profit organization.  Utilizing her expertise in this highly specialized field, GCI plans to transform the Beso Del Sol Resort into a popular destination location for special gatherings.

The whole ownership condominiums include a mix of garden and Gulf-view studio units, as well as one- and two-bedroom townhouses, plus direct Gulf-front studio units. Amenities include two swimming pools, hot tub, oceanfront sundeck, fitness center and video game room, private pier with deep-water boat slips available for sale or rent, plus a Tiki bar and grill. A waterfront restaurant is planned for the near future.

As a leader in the growing travel industry, the 21-year old Global Connections provides its 150,000 members with a host of benefits and vacationing options to more than 700 resorts located from the Midwest to the Caribbean. GCI is the owner and developer of five resorts in California, Colorado, Florida and Tennessee and also owns multiple resort condominium units in Florida, Hawaii, Missouri, Nevada, South Carolina, Texas and Wisconsin. Partner alliances with exchange and cruise organizations, along with owned and leased properties provide on-demand locations in popular vacation destinations around the world for the company’s expanding member base. The company’s 28 sales centers are located in 20 states and are distributors of its travel club product, Global Discovery Vacations. For additional information, contact Melanie Gring at 561-417-7559 or mgring@gcitravel.net

Robb & Stucky Interiors, one of North America’s largest home furnishings and interior design companies, is preparing for the installation of furnishings for Bluegreen Corporation’s Harbour Lights Resort in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Nancy Woodhouse, IDS

Robb & Stucky Senior Designer Nancy Woodhouse, IDS, selected a coastal design embracing an easy living lifestyle for the new furniture packages, inspired by the South Carolina shoreline including furniture pieces for dining, living and bedroom. Campaign-style furniture was created for the living areas, reflecting the resort’s existing nautical decor. Each bedroom is anchored with a custom-designed Sea Captain’s headboard with complementing nightstands and dresser for the 48 two-bedroom lockout villas in four of the buildings on the property. The larger units feature king-sized beds with living room, dining, full-sized kitchens and patios. Robb & Stucky provided the design and manufacturing of all furniture pieces used in the newly designed villas.

“Since the building’s exteriors feature pastel colors, we wanted to ensure that the new interiors reflected the feeling of this seaside community,” said Nancy. “We used warm wood tones, neutral backgrounds and added a few nautical fabric accents to ensure that the design remains contemporary and timeless.”

Added Woodhouse, “We applied a great deal of the Value Engineering concept to this project, creating several pieces of top-quality furniture keeping the intended function and fulfilling the client’s needs, while at the same time reducing overall costs. This was accomplished without sacrificing the appearance or function of each piece of furniture.  Utilizing the Value Engineering process can have a significant impact on overall costs, especially in the hospitality industry, when designing for multiple units.”

A major challenge was accomplished in the lock off bedroom, which required seating for dining in a smaller area as well as a custom-designed piece to hold a TV, DVD player, a set of drawers, a small refrigerator and microwave for a designated alcove. The custom piece was designed to have all appliances hidden behind shutter detailed door fronts. Robb & Stucky also designed and manufactured a game table that serves multiple functions including ottomans for additional seating. The custom table serves as: dining, family game area and desk for a computer.

Commented Dan Lubner, President of the Resort Division of Robb & Stucky Interiors, “Because of our vertical integration, we were able to custom design and manufacture the perfect product for this resort. We are honored to continue to provide our unique services to Bluegreen Resorts.”

Kathleen Palmer, General Manager of Harbour Lights Resorts adds, “During the entire design process, the Robb & Stucky team has been extremely well organized and flexible in adjusting to our changing needs. The staff was most conscientious and easy to work with.”

About Robb & Stucky Interiors
Founded in 1915 in Fort Myers, Florida, Robb & Stucky Interiors is a nationally respected interior design and premier furnishings retailer with showrooms in Florida, Texas, Arizona, Nevada and Costa Rica and one of the nation’s largest team of licensed interior designers. In 2009, the company was named an Alliance Partner for the internationally respected Preferred Hotel Group, providing interior design services for Preferred Hotel Group’s 700+ member hotels, resorts and fractional properties in more than 70 countries. The Interval International vacation exchange company recently named Robb & Stucky to its prestigious Interval Affiliate Advantage program, making its design services available to Interval International member resorts.  For more information, visit www.RobbStucky.com

About Bluegreen Corporation
Founded in 1966 and headquartered in Boca Raton, FL, Bluegreen Corporation (NYSE:BXG) is the leader in providing Colorful Places to Live and Play through its vacation ownership resort and residential real estate business segments. Our more than 3,100 employees are passionate about delivering extraordinary experiences for our owners, travelers and business partners. Since 1996, Bluegreen has managed, marketed and sold a flexible, real estate-based vacation ownership plan with more than 208,000 owners, over 45 owned or managed resorts, and access to more than 3,700 resorts worldwide. Since 1985, Bluegreen Communities has developed master-planned residential and golf communities primarily in the southern and southeastern U.S., and has sold over 55,000 homesites. We also offer a portfolio of comprehensive, turnkey, fee-for-service resort management, financial services, customer generation and sales solutions to third-party developers and lenders. For more information, visit www.bluegreencorp.com.

The staff of Global Connections, Inc. (GCI) one of the nation’s most respected travel clubs, has generously helped its local SPCA by raising money for abused and neglected animals in their area.

Employees from Global’s Clearwater, Florida office entered the 5th annual SPCA (Society for the Prevention & Cruelty to Animals) Bowl-A-Thon to raise money, registering as the Beso Del Sol team, representing Global Connection’s new resort in Dunedin, Florida.

Participants included Heather Love, Nirce Barbaro, Marcia McGinley, Ron Parham and Kelli Brazier.  The team grew from five to twelve members as friends and supporters joined in the day-long bowling event.

The Global Connections team exceeded their initial goal of $1,000, raising nearly $1,300, which landed them in third place for overall donations. Their winnings included a trophy and a gift basket filled to the brim with gift certificates to various local restaurants and businesses along with dog toys, which were donated back to the SPCA.

L - R: Global Connections employees: Kelli Brazier, Marcia McGinley, Nirce Barbaro, and Heather Love

The SPCA was formed 65 years ago and does not receive any State or Federal tax dollars.
Added Kelli Brazier, Member Fulfillment Manager, “We’ve all been instrumental in finding homes for unwanted and rescue animals for years and decided this would be the ideal opportunity to raise money for a cause dear to our hearts, while also working together as a team. It was incredible to see how many people really care.  A sincere thank you is extended to each of our sponsors!”

Employees of GCI in Overland Park, Kansas also recently helped to raise over $40,000 to benefit Quest to Walk, an exercise-based spinal cord injury recovery center founded by one of its employees.

As a leader in the growing travel industry, the 21-year old Global Connections provides its 125,000 members with a host of benefits and vacationing options to more than 700 resorts located from the Midwest to the Caribbean. GCI is the owner and developer of five resorts in California, Colorado, Florida and Tennessee and also owns multiple resort condominium units in Florida, Hawaii, Missouri, Nevada, South Carolina, Texas and Wisconsin. Partner alliances with exchange and cruise organizations, along with owned and leased properties provide on-demand locations in popular vacation destinations around the world for the company’s expanding member base. The company’s 28 sales centers are located in 20 states and are distributors of its travel club product, Global Discovery Vacations. For additional information, contact Melanie Gring at 561-417-7559 or mgring@gcitravel.net

Global Connections, Inc. (GCI) has recently launched its new Global Discovery Vacations (GDV) members-only website to serve the needs of more than 150,000 members. The newly enhanced website allows members to make online reservations and to escape, explore and discover all the possibilities and benefits available with their Global Discovery Vacations membership.

Created by Global Connections, the GDV club product offers a membership based on Star Credits, similar to timeshare’s points-based programs, designed to allow GDV members to select a program to fit their lifestyle and budget. Global Connections provides total fulfillment of each member’s request from lodging to airline to cruises and ensures that members’ vacations are a rewarding experience.

Explains Global VP of Operations Catherine Wunder, “The functionality of the GDV website has been greatly enhanced by adding features such as information on cruise exchanges, Express Cruises (last minute cruise vacation deals) and Global VIP themed group cruises. Members can now use the website to reserve resort condominiums, request forms for Discount Weeks, learn more about their travel history and renew their membership online.”

A vacation calculator helps members determine the cost of Value Week and Expressway Weeks and an account overview advises members the balance of Star Credit available for future bookings. A new section provides online answers to members’ most frequently-asked questions while another section dubbed “the traveler” provides industry news and travel alerts.

During 2008, GDV members used over 28,000 condominium weeks in almost 700 resorts located from Hawaii to the Caribbean. Headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas, GDV was formed in the early 90s. Global Connections’ 28 sales centers located in 20 states and are distributors of its GDV travel club product.

Global Connections has developed and owns many of its properties with resorts currently located throughout the State of Florida and in California, Tennessee, and Colorado. The company also owns multiple resort condominium units in Florida, Hawaii, Missouri, Nevada, South Carolina, Texas and Wisconsin. Partner alliances with exchange and cruise organizations, along with owned and leased properties provide on-demand locations in popular vacation destinations around the world for the company’s expanding member base.

For additional information, contact Melanie Gring at 561-417-7559 or mgring@gcitravel.net

Starwood’s Green Trailblazing New Hotel Brand Heads West with the Openings of Element Denver Park Meadows and Element Dallas Fort Worth Airport North

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) today announces the opening of its first hotel in Colorado and fifth Element hotel globally – Element Denver Park Meadows. And later this week, Starwood’s green trailblazer will open its sixth hotel – Element Dallas Fort Worth Airport North.

Owned by Medical Hospitality Group and managed by InterMountain Management, LLC, Element Denver Park Meadows is currently in pursuit of LEED certification. It is the second Element project between the ownership group, development team, and InterMountain Management, following the opening of Element Houston Vintage Park in Texas this spring.

“We celebrate the successful, strategic growth of the Element brand with the opening of our fifth and sixth hotels, all in one week,” said Paul Sacco, Senior Vice President of Development for North America, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. “We are also delighted to expand our relationship with Medical Hospitality Group and InterMountain Management, who have demonstrated their growing commitment and support of our Element brand.”

Launched by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. in 2008, Element delivers a no-compromise, eco-chic experience enhanced by comfortable and inspiring public spaces, modern touches and smart design. Element Hotels is the first major hotel brand to mandate that all its properties pursue the US Green Building Council’s (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification.

The Element brand’s green features are cleverly designed to be as aesthetically appealing as they are eco-friendly, so guests never compromise on style and comfort. Eco-friendly materials are used whenever possible and natural light is maximized throughout the hotels. To reduce waste, guest room bathrooms are equipped with amenity dispensers, kitchens are supplied with silverware and glassware instead of plastic utensils and paper cups, and filtered drinking water is available rather than plastic water bottles. Recycling bins are available in guest rooms and public areas. Element hotels conserve water and energy with low-flow faucets and fixtures, compact fluorescent light bulbs, and energy-efficient appliances. Even the ubiquitous “Do Not Disturb” sign has been replaced with an environmentally-friendly magnet.

About Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with 960 properties in 97 countries and 145,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels, resorts and residences with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, W®, Westin®, Le Méridien®, Sheraton®, Four Points® by Sheraton, and the recently launched Aloft®, and ElementSM. Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com.

About InterMountain Management
As one of North America’s leading owner/operator and third-party management companies, InterMountain Management, LLC specializes in the select service and extended stay hotel segments. For more than 25 years, InterMountain Management’s dedication to success has been proven in the results as a hotel owner, management company, and hotel developer. Their managed hotel owners have benefited from the development and management knowledge and experience gained from owning and operating our own hotel portfolio. They currently own and/or manage over 70 premium branded hotels in 26 states within Starwood and other leading hotel brand portfolios. For more information or to view hotel locations across the U.S., please visit their website at www.intermtn.biz.

by Marge Lennon

In considering the status of your resort property, do any of these design challenges sound familiar?

• Your resort or hotel rooms are “tired” or “dated” and in need of a total renovation.
• Your budget can cover only a small portion of what is actually required.
• Your refurbishments may need to be spread out over several years.
• You do not want the finished work to look like it was completed in stages.
• You need to replace only a single item – while retaining the majority of your furnishings.
• You are cautious about making that purchase from a local vendor.
• You need to refurbish a single room or area, but want it to blend with the rest of your unit.
• You have a new property and want ONE organization to guide you through the entire design and installation process, avoiding multiple “middle men” who add commissions during each step.

If you responded, “Yep, that’s me” to any of these comments, read on …

Although they have handled some of the largest total furnishing assignments and renovations to hotels and resorts around the world, Robb & Stucky Interiors is equally proud of their ability to help clients with smaller challenges. Similar to your personal residence, it isn’t always financially feasible to replace everything at one time. The design professionals at Robb & Stucky Interiors understand this and are well positioned to help you with the very important strategic planning process.

“Much like a large department store, where you can purchase everything needed for a bedroom or just a pillow, we can help with the largest and smallest furnishing item for a resort,” explained Dan Lubner, President of the Resort Division of Robb & Stucky Interiors. “After specializing in furnishing resort properties for over two decades, we enjoy the challenge of understanding and implementing the multi-step process. We recognize that some refurbishments are so large that budgetary constraints require them to be spread out over several years. While in other cases, a developer or management company has an urgent need to replace couches in 50 units … and wants them tomorrow! We also know that there may be times when a property will have to retain many items in a room but replace others. This presents additional challenges. Using our professional guidance will ensure that existing elements are gracefully integrated with all new items.”

Frequently, a developer or management firm may decide to shop locally for a replacement chair or lamp. This can often lead to problems down the road because the retailer does not have the “complete picture” of your resort. “We recognize that every item should be a reflection of your entire resort or hotel,” added Lubner.

Robb & Stucky Design Services
Until recently, the process that involves the selection, manufacturing, purchasing and installation of furnishings for hospitality properties has been accomplished through the use of many specialists with major portions of the budget going toward commissions for various coordination fees. Robb & Stucky helps its hotel, timeshare and fractional clients make wise interior and refurbishing decisions by providing all of these services with just one phone call. This eliminates the need for outsourcing or paying the middleman’s markup or designers’ commissions and allows for the maximum percentage of the developers’ furniture, fixture and equipment budget to actually be spent on FF&E.

About five years ago, Robb & Stucky decided to increase their service capabilities by manufacturing what they design, creating customized product lines for each commercial and hospitality application, often at a surprisingly affordable cost. The company also manufactures its own line of high-end bedding and related accessories and supplies appliances and televisions at competitive prices. Another specialty is the creation of custom-designed furnishings to fit tight spaces at affordable prices, as well as the selection of flooring and window treatments. Robb & Stucky’s size and buying power and their bundling of services enables them to provide furnishings and design work at highly competitive prices, whether the client is in Denver or Dubai. With one of North America’s largest teams of licensed interior designers, these professionals can be mobilized from any part of the globe.

As a testament to their service to hoteliers, Robb & Stucky was recently named the newest Alliance Partner
for the internationally respected Preferred Hotel Group. Under the arrangement, Robb & Stucky provides interior design services for Preferred Hotel Group’s more than 700 member hotels, resorts and fractional ownership properties located in over 70 countries.

Since their beginnings in 1915 in Fort Myers, Florida, Robb & Stucky has evolved to become one of the largest high-end furniture retailers in North America. Today, there are 15 interior showrooms and eight patio stores located in Florida, Arizona, Nevada, Texas and Costa Rica.

For Perspective readers seeking advice on refurbishments or total new furnishings, Robb & Stucky Interiors is well positioned to assist with all of your interior design needs. To reach Dan Lubner, call 239-292-3717 or write to him at Dan.Lubner@RobbStucky.net www.RobbStucky.com

During the last few months, Robb & Stucky has successfully contracted for or delivered the following projects, listed below by type of property and work that was completed. Please note the wide scope and variety of assignments provided to meet each client’s specific needs.

TIMESHARE & FRACTIONAL PROPERTIES

• Casa Del Mar, Daytona, FL – This project included the total custom design renovation of 27 units for Bluegreen Resorts. The property was originally built as a hotel; the goal was to transform it to modern day standards with a sophisticated, timeless look. The work involved total design for four different room types, requiring entirely different sized furnishings for each room. The design team is scheduled to install custom-designed and manufactured headboards, desks, armoire/wardrobes, tables and chairs.

• The Soundings Seaside Resort, Cape Cod, MA – Robb & Stucky recently completed the first phase of construction/ design out of more 100 condominiums to be renovated for Bluegreen Resorts. (The
remaining phases are expected next year.) The project began with a complete renovation and refurbishment of a beachfront structure working out from the original framing. Only the building’s footprint and roof remained. This meant that all plumbing – sinks, bathtubs, tiles – had to be reconfigured, all appliances and electronics installed and total new furnishings were custom designed for the three separate unit sizes. The work was completed after a collaborative effort between the design team, contractors and architects.

According to Leon Narbonne, owner of The Soundings Seaside Resort, “Robb & Stucky delivered everything on time. They did an excellent job of selecting and installing the high quality furnishings and accessories. We were very pleased with their service and look forward to working with them again in the future.”

• Tarpon Point Marina, Cape Coral, FL – Robb & Stucky has been working with Grosse Pointe Development to complete the interior design, manufacture and installation of furnishings for The Resort At Marina Village Residence Club. The 184-unit high-rise resort is a combination of two and three-bedroom resident suites to be sold as both fractional and whole ownership and located within Tarpon Pointe Marina, a master-planned waterfront community. Robb & Stucky is also directing and providing complete turn-key furnishings, including bedding, window coverings, artwork accessories and kitchen ware. The design professionals were also asked to assist in the design of the lobby and common areas for this luxury mixed-use community.

Commented Lauren Hagan, Director of Sales for Grosse Pointe Development, “Designing fully-furnished upscale interiors that accommodate the needs and desires of demanding homeowners of both fractional and whole ownership residences, which will also be used as resort rooms, was a challenge that we felt Robb & Stucky was up to handling. Their ability to create customdesigned furnishings specifically for our property, when coupled with their extensive experience provided us with a peace of mind and a stylish look that will be accompanied by designer accessories and furnishings. Not only are they creating a custom look for the resort, but they are also coordinating every aspect of the design, manufacturing, shipping and installation process. As a result, the finished product will be beautiful and worry-free.”

Since both the fractional and whole ownership units will be sold completely furnished and to an upscale market, having the right company to handle the interior design work is an integral element to our success. We selected Robb & Stucky because of their impressive credentials, their experience with fractionals, their understanding of the share-use concept and the expectations of this special market. Also, they will be providing custom-designed furnishings specifically for our property, creating a type of ‘Florida chic’ along with designer accessories and finishes. We are very pleased that they were able to create a new line of custom furnishings, specifically for our property. They are also coordinating every facet of the design, manufacturing, shipping, and installation process taking away many potential headaches.”

HOTELS/RESORTS

• The Hyatt Ganey Ranch, Scottsdale, AZ – Extensive outdoor furnishings were custom designed to deliver a trendy resort living ambience for three distinct upscale outdoor areas, to include a sophisticated adult side, a family sports playground and colorful kids sandy beach. Robb & Stucky also created specially designed daybeds and custom cabanas that generated additional revenueproducing areas.

• Hotel Indigo, Fort Myers, FL - Custom-designed furnishings and public spaces were completed for this nationally branded 67-room boutique hotel, a franchise of InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG). Since franchised brands must have a uniformity and consistency of style, Robb & Stucky designers collaborated closely with the hotel company to ensure that corporate design standards as well as budgets were met down to the very last detail. Every single piece of furniture, including luggage racks, chairs and bathroom vanities, required corporate approval.

Added Bob Haury, President of DOC Hospitality, “Robb & Stucky designed, manufactured, shipped and inspected high-end furnishings that not only met, but far exceeded brand standards for Hotel Indigo. They provided us with unparalleled logistical and customer services. It was a superb fit.”

• The Marco Beach Resort, Marco Island, FL – This Preferred Hotel Group affiliate requested a complete redesign and installation of 98 guest vacation suites for an existing property. The work included selecting new items to blend with furnishings and accessories that were to remain in the units. A “facelift” included new carpeting, custom bedding, and window treatments. The majority of the newly installed furnishings were custom designed specifically for this resort and included sofas, chairs and lamps.

“Our guests have discerning tastes and expect a certain level of quality and style while vacationing,” said Ron Albeit, Marco Beach Ocean Resort Hotel Advisor. “We selected Robb & Stucky for this project based on their expertise, capabilities for a fast installation and ability to work within the allocated budget.”

• The Wort Hotel, Jackson Hole, WY – Robb & Stucky sourced outdoor dining furnishings for the Wort Hotel’s famed Silver Dollar Bar & Grill. The experimental project has proven wildly successful filling a niche in downtown Jackson Hole, WY. A dual branded member of Preferred Hotel Group, The Wort Hotel was recently named one of the nation’s top ten historic hotels.

Jim Waldrop, General Manager of the Wort Hotel shared, “Robb & Stucky’s timely follow-up and actual implementation of work was outstanding. We were on an extremely tight timeline and they were able to deliver weeks before anyone else. Their turnover time was incredible. I received a return phone call on the very first day that I contacted them for information. We hope to use them in the future for other projects.”

CONDOMINIUMS

• Fairway Point at Boca West Country Club, Boca Raton, FL – In the redesign of two 8-story towers, all interior spaces, lobbies and common areas were transformed into a contemporary transitional style. New carpeting, wall coverings, lighting and furnishings were installed on all 16 floors, corridors and fitness centers.

• The Georgian, South Beach, FL – A complete makeover was completed for two lobbies in this luxury high-rise condominium. Work involved flooring, wall finishes, and a custom reception desk, created to reflect the shape of the building and its architecture.

• The Strada at Mercato, Naples, FL – Robb & Stucky completed two luxury condominium models and one “spec” residential unit for this upscale urban condominium development with mixed-use elements. They also provided space planning and interior design for the clubhouse, hallways, lobbies and public spaces on the residential side of the buildings and exterior furnishings for the pool area.

• Venetian Isles, Boynton Beach, FL – Design work here involved the total renovation of a 28,000 sf clubhouse, to include the replacement of all furnishings, accessories, window treatments, and flooring for grand lobby, corridors, cardrooms, theater, kitchen and café.

Marge Lennon, of Lennon Communications, is celebrating 31 years as a writer for the vacation ownership industry. She can be reached by calling 239-482-3891 or via email at Marge@LennonCommunications.com.

Element is Reinventing the Longer-Stay Travel Experience for Visitors to Houston

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. announces the opening of Element Houston Vintage Park, the first Element hotel to open in Texas. Inspired by Westin™ Hotels & Resorts, Element invites guests to check-in to a new travel experience with comfortable public spaces, modern style and eco-friendly design. Owned by Condor Hospitality, LLC and managed by InterMountain Management, LLC of Louisiana, the newly constructed, 123-room hotel is a key part of the new Vintage Park lifestyle center located in bustling northwest Houston. The General Contractor for the Element is Benchmark Development Corporation of Dallas. This is the first of two Element projects between the ownership group, development team, and InterMountain Management. The Element Hotel in Lone Tree, Colorado will open in the summer of 2009.

Awaken to Smart Eco-chic Design
The Element brand’s unique design philosophy is evident the moment guests arrive. After passing through a signature portal that provides a literal bridge to the Element interior, guests will be greeted with streams of natural light from a multi-storied window wall. The vitality of the lobby will be matched by the energy of the hotel’s outdoor fire pit and barbecue, where a weekly evening reception allows guests to interact while enjoying a selection of savory food.

“Every aspect of Element Houston Vintage Park is designed to help guests recharge and be at their best while they are traveling,” said Brian McGuinness, Vice President of Element Hotels. “Our guests will be able to experience a whole new perspective on longer stay travel while enjoying vibrant northwest Houston and easy access to the area’s leading technology firms, shopping, dining and recreation.”

The smart design and clever use of space in the hotel’s guest rooms rejuvenates and energizes guests for work or play. Guests are able to customize their rooms to meet their needs with the multi-purpose, modular furniture, swiveling flat-screen televisions, large desks with open shelving and custom-designed closets. Rooms also offer a fully equipped kitchen that features modern, ENERGY STAR-rated appliances and all the utensils necessary to prepare a gourmet meal. Guests will rest soundly in the signature Heavenly® Bed, and wake up and recharge each morning in a sleek, spa-inspired Heavenly shower.

A Vital Travel Hub
Located in Houston’s premier northwest business and shopping area, Element Houston Vintage Park is a key part of a new upscale retail and lifestyle center, just minutes from the Willowbrook shopping complexes, less than 20 minutes from the IAH Airport and 25 minutes from the heart of downtown Houston. Also nearby are the offices of HP, the George R. Brown Convention Center, Toyota Center, the Sam Houston Race Park and several golf courses.

“Element Houston Vintage Park delivers a comfortable and inspiring longer stay experience, as well as easy access to the best of northwest Houston,” said Billy Brown, President, Condor Hospitality. “Ideal for both work and relaxation, Element creates an inviting atmosphere enhanced by sleek, modern spaces and natural touches.”

Space to Live Your Life
A signature complimentary breakfast offering, free wireless internet access, state-of-the-art fitness center, chlorine-free pool and uninterrupted indoor/outdoor public spaces will deliver everything the guests need to work, relax or socialize on their schedule. Intuitive staff will provide guests the personalized attention they need and the space they desire to maintain balance while away from home.

Element Houston Vintage Park will also feature 456 square feet of meeting space, an integrated technology center and library, as well as café seating, a workspace and a flexible lobby space.

Great for the Earth, Great for Guests
Element Houston Vintage Park will be working towards LEED certification in its first year of operation, as part of the Element brand’s historic effort to require all its hotels to pursue this certification. The Element brand’s green features are cleverly designed to be as aesthetically appealing as they are eco-friendly, so guests never compromise on style and comfort. Element Hotels are equipped with energy-efficient, stainless steel appliances and lighting, amenity dispensers in the showers to reduce waste and water-efficient faucets and fixtures. Guests can continue daily routines such as recycling papers and plastics, as well as using green materials, while those driving hybrid cars are rewarded with priority parking. Even the ubiquitous “Do Not Disturb” sign has been replaced with an environmentally-friendly magnet.

About Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with more than 940 properties in approximately 97 countries and 145,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels, resorts and residences with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, W®, Westin®, Le Méridien®, Sheraton®, Four Points® by Sheraton, and the recently launched AloftSM, and ElementSM. Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com.

About InterMountain Management
As one of North America’s leading owner/operator and third-party management companies, InterMountain Management, LLC specializes in the select service and extended stay hotel segments. For more than 25 years, InterMountain Management’s dedication to success has been proven in the results as a hotel owner, management company, and hotel developer. Their managed hotel owners have benefited from the development and management knowledge and experience gained from owning and operating our own hotel portfolio. They currently own and/or manage over 70 premium branded hotels in 26 states within Starwood and other leading hotel brand portfolios. For more information or to view hotel locations across the U.S., please visit their website at www.intermtn.biz.