Brittany Spinner, LEED AP

Ownership: Parks LLC Mexico www.parks.com.mx Architect of Record: AOMA Architects

Scope: New Build Hotel- Guestrooms and Public Space

Timeline: July 2018- Opening Date: January 27th, 2020

Team Role: Senior Designer, Project Management- Full project scope and timeline (4 person team)

DESIGN AWARDS:

Winner - Design Et Al- International Hotel &Property Awards- Best Suite

Finalist- Gold Key Awards- 2020- Best Upscale Hotel Room

Finalist- Project of the Year 2020- Interior Design Mag- Best Guestroom

Finalist- Project of the Year 2020- Interior Design Mag- Best Resort Finalist-

Shortlisted- Design Et Al- International Hotel & Property Awards- Hotel Under 200 Rooms-

Among Mexico’s bountiful natural wonders, a swim in a cenote is the signature experience. Cenotes embody the notions of mystery, wonder and discovery.  Within the tangled layers of jungle, we‘re surprised to find deep stone surfaces draped in vegetation and encircling voluminous depths.  We’re drawn nearer to find that a mirror of pristine waters below quietly contains a universe of underwater enchantments.  We’re drawn ever nearer, down the ladder, to discover its secrets.

In similar fashion, the Canopy Cancun lures patrons with its lush terraces and textured volumes, layering thoughtful details with delightful discoveries, creating moments of connection that will keep visitors coming back for an experience they can only find here.

Visible from the exterior through a two-story window, guests to the Canopy Cancun are greeted with a feature chandelier – a suspended art feature – a colorful and energetic cluster of woven fiber sculptures. Architectural lighting integrated around and within the cluster illuminates it, casting shadows on the surrounding surfaces that softly dance like leaves in the jungle.

Beyond it, guests will notice the vast lattice-work ceiling that weaves its way past the lobby bar and down into the Café beyond. With its raw finish and open, overlapping geometries it suggests the handmade ladders and layered natural root systems that descend into the cenote.

Featuring the signature styles of local Cancun artists like Curiot, Sleepwalck, and Marisol D’Estrabeau who often highlight natural influences and curious mythical creatures in their work, our feature mural sits prominently above the bar, layering paint colors and line work over the angular concrete blocks - a common screening feature in Mexican architectural vernacular. Expressed with a modern edge, themes of the mural relate to the sacred cenotes and the natural bounty of Quintana Roo.

The bar itself is raw and monolithic, with split face granite front and polished top. The extension of the accessible communal table looks as if it was carved from solid stone. Black oak raised panels on the bar offer a refinement that compliments tactile finish of the bar front.

The Cafe is the heartbeat of the Canopy lobby.  Enjoying the intimacy of lower ceilings clad in the same geometric vine motif as the lobby, and transitioning breezily from day to night-time service, this space allows the guest to separate themselves from the lobby bar.  Like water winding from the cenote to the sea, café patrons find a secondary entrance/exit that delivers them directly to La Isla mall terrace where they embark on their adventures. 

Thoughtfully curated scenes by local muralists adorn the guestroom wall and headboard, portraying scenes of the jungle, flowers, and cenote-inspired ladder to symbolize the start of the guest’s adventure. Sophisticated detailing with clean lines and natural woods express the Canopy brand values and emphasis on honest materials.

The closet is the first moment of discovery within the guestroom. The see-through design divides the vanity area from the rest of the room without total separation, allowing enjoyment of the natural daylighting and views from the vanity area. Spaces for suitcases and hanging garments are thoughtfully integrated, while the drawers conceal a surprise pop of color with the signature ‘cenote blue’ that relates to the mural at the headboard.  Other surprise details include the stitched legs of the desk, media unit with its familiar frame design that relates to the closet. Softer elements such as the embroidered sheer on the windows, the textile inspired carpet pattern, and the tactile woven pillows on the oversized daybed serve to further hint at the locale through natural textures and patterns native to the region.

Photos Courtesy of Will Pryce

Ownership: Parks LLC Mexico www.parks.com.mx Architect of Record: Colonnier y Asociados

Scope: New Build Hotel- Guestrooms and Public Space

Timeline: June 2017- Current (On hold due to permit issues) Opening Date: 2021

Team Role: Senior Designer, Project Management- Full project scope and timeline (3 person team)

The ancient Aztecs worshiped a god called Huehuecóyotl whom appeared in the form of a coyote. The coyote god was a symbol of duality that represented the balance between darkness and light. In his light form, Huehuecóyotl was often depicted in green feathers, and he wore black and yellow in the form of darkness. The design of Coyoacan explores the intersection between darkness and light. Using large sculptural gestures we pay homage to the mythical history of Mexico City and celebrate the giants that shaped the landscape. Using textures and materials inspired by the local Mercado de Coyoacán, the large scale monumental forms are softened with a human touch bringing a balance to the existence of myth and man.

The idea of Huehuecóyotl’s transformation of darkness and light comes to life in the restaurant and bar. The bright light of the exterior combines with a warm, moody space with contrasts of yellows and black. The dining room transitions from the sculptural gestures of the lobby to a flexible space that features the morning buffet experience as well as a place for groups to gather late into the evening hours. A varying amount of seating groups offers a personalized, comfortable fit to each guest.

Creating a similar feeling from the lobby bar, the rooftop transitions from a light, park-like setting during the day to a mischievous and playful darkness of the coyote god by night. Subtle pattern on walls and floor are juxtaposed against the clean modern lines of the back bar and shade structures. This pairing speaks to the contrasts of old and new in Mexico City while feeling contemporary.

In the guestrooms, an interplay of transparency and solid forms becomes a sculptural expression of the duality in the Huehuecóyotl legend, the true expression of darkness and light as form.

Ownership: Parks LLC Mexico www.parks.com.mx Architect of Record: ARES Architecture

Scope: New Build Hotel- Guestrooms and Public Space

Timeline: June 2017- Current. Opening Date: 2021

Team Role: Senior Designer, Project Management- Full project scope to design development (3 person team)

The new Monterrey hotel interior emulates the city’s juxtaposition of forward-thinking urban architecture nestled within the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. Modern architecture such as the Centro Roberto Garza Sada by Tadao Ando inspired the strong graphic shapes and contrasting textures that are cunningly implemented with a mixture of finishes and materials. Layers of natural stone, metal, glass, fabric, and light interplay and strike a harmonious balance between clean modern lines and natural comfort to create a sense of place that is uniquely Monterrey.

Clean lines with intersecting angles greet guests in contrasting light and dark earth tones. The patterns are strong, but textural to bring us back to nature. Larger than life carved stone features are fl anked on either side of the lobby as well as a center feature for balance and harmony. The carving within the stone reminds the guest of an abstracted shape depicting the surrounding powerful, naturally formed skyline outside of the property.

Sculptural upholstery in a series of soft and deep blue tones fl ow throughout the lobby. Each seating groups moves and blend with each other, reminding us of the natural colors of the surrounding mountains. The strong geometric pattern on the rug adds a layer of softness that provides a grounding element to the lobby seating groups. Each sofa has a shape and angle reminding us of the shapes that have become the familiar view throughout the hotel. Channel tufting details on the seat and back create a beautiful piece from all sides that the guest will encounter them.

In the restaurant, dark washes of cobalt blues ground the light and airy feature screens on each of the banquettes. The screens have white metal rods connected by a walnut wood frame that provide a sense of shelter and an identity for the restaurant. Progressing through the restaurant is like taking a journey up the mountain from the dark bottom to the cloud brightness of the top with a grouping of white whimsical chandeliers.

The ballrooms are architectural in design, balanced with special details and deep feature chandeliers that are the main focus of the design. Sculptural light boxes illuminate the ballroom below and create a dramatic backdrop. The shape and design are inspired by the angles and patterns of the valleys and ridges of the landscape.

The carpet design reminds us of the clouds moving through the rugged peaks and exposing the blue, grey, brown, and cream colors of the landscape. Feature wall covering panels with crisp reveal lines brighten up the darker components while maintaining a soft, feathered texture.

On the 6th fl oor, the guests arrive to the pool level. The fi tness center, with its glass windows, allow a peek inside and a small view to the exterior. The entry of the pool and pool bar is through a pair of double doors that create a direct view of the mountains. The pool positioned at the edge of the building refl ects the mountains into the water and you will feel as though you can touch the mountains.

The pool bar is separated into two areas that can be closed off during off -peak hours or be sold for private events. The pool bar offers an uninterrupted view of Cerro de la Silla in a crisp and recumbent setting. Warm grays brightened by colorful moments compliment the outdoor landscape. The bar itself has a monolithic stone slab with feature lighting for a slick, modern appearance. The back bar is back-lit glass panels that create a continue glow and a moody atmosphere both day and night. Bespoke touches in the fixtures and furnishing allow the pool to bar a unique personality while maintaining a casual elegance.

In the guestroom, a neutral material palette with dark contrasting tones and soft wisps of misty blue, and light wood tones create a calm and contemporary guest experience. The colors blend the divide between in the indoors and out. Most guestrooms overlook the valley and mountain landscape on each side. The carpet pattern has the wisps of blue that pull the colors from the outdoors to the interior of the room

Ownership: Parks LLC Mexico www.parks.com.mx Architect of Record: SMA Arquitectos

Scope:New Build Hotel- Guestrooms and Public Space

Timeline: October 2015- Opening November 2018

Team Role: Senior Designer, Project Management- Full project scope and timeline (3 person team)

DESIGN AWARDS:

Muse Design Awards- Platinum Winner- Best Hotel 2018

In a city built by artisans for artisans, the contemporary design of this new build hotel involves jewel like moments of artisan detailing. While elevating the sense of place, the emphasis remains on clean architectural gestures. The scope includes the reception lobby, lobby lounge, lobby bar, eight meeting rooms, ballroom, restaurant, executive lounge, fitness center, pool, pool deck and bar, and 300 guestrooms and suites.

Considered the birthplace and heartbeat of Mexican culture, the rich context of Guadalajara offered a bounty of inspiration – from the earthy historic architecture, the ornate patterns and details to be discovered everywhere from the native pottery to the intricate stitching that adorns the Mariachi. Our palette is an expression of the surrounding landscape - the densely layered textures and geometries of the urban fabric highlighted with notes of earth and sky - accented with the elements of metal and glass that reflect the urban and forward-facing attitude of Guadalajara today. Patterned screening elements throughout cast playful shadows and celebrate the hazy warm tone of daylighting that is unique to Guadalajara.

We were heavily inspired from the traditions of local handmade goods signature to the Jalisco region, from basket weaving to glass blowing and pottery. While traditional colors and patterns define the region, these patterns take on modern twist and are reflected most dominantly in the collection of custom area rugs and carpets. Their signature blue tone captures the color of the traditional glaze used in Talavera pottery. The patterns are expressed at many scales and in both large and small spaces, from the window screens that greet you in the lobby, meeting rooms, and pool area, to the coordinating carpet and desk components in the guestrooms. Guests will delight in discovering these connections and their subtle nod to local context.

Guests will experience a rhythmic expansion and contraction of space as they travel through the hotel, balancing a sense of grandeur with a welcoming familiarity. From the intimate ground floor entry lobby, to the voluminous 3rd floor lobby lounge and bar, from the sparkling restaurant, through soaring corridors with full height windows, to the quietly energetic retreat that is the guestroom.

The property will also feature a new branded restaurant concept tailored for Hilton hotels in the Mexico region that HBA helped to develop along with the client and brand.

Ownership: Parks LLC Mexico www.parks.com.mx Architect of Record: EDSA

Scope: New Build Hotel- Guestrooms and Public Space

Timeline: May 2019- Nov. 2019 Opening Date: 2022

Team Role: Remote consultant for full development of the concept, presentations, renderings, specifications, documentations and from Concept to Design Development.

The bar lounge draws on the natural elements throughout the property. Warm tzalam wood, natural cut limestone and slick black marble create a rich and handsome look to the sophisticated bar lounge.

Awards:

Winner! Design Et Al- International Hotel & Property Awards- Best Hotel over 200 Rooms

Finalist- Gold Key Awards- 2022- Boutique Design Magazine - Best Resort

Finalist- Gold Key Awards- 2022- Boutique Design Magazine - Best Wellness Resort

Finalist- Hospitality Design Awards- 2022- Hospitality Design Magazine - Best Resort

Finalist- Project of the Year 2022- Interior Design Magazine- Best Large Resort

Finalist! Design Et Al- International Hotel & Property Awards- Best Lobby/Public Space

Ownership: Parks LLC Mexico www.parks.com.mx Architect of Record: EDSA

Scope: New Build Hotel- Guestrooms and Public Space

Timeline: May 2019- Nov. 2019 Opening Date: 2022

Team Role: Remote consultant for full development of the concept, presentation, renderings, plans, specification and documentation from Concept to Design Development

In the brand pillars of the Live Aqua brand, nature plays the largest roll. Finding ways to integrate the modern design aesthetic of the owner, which the luscious jungle landscape and the brand pillars helped influence the design of the pool bar. The space was designed to feel like a “Nikki Beach” concept, which DJ stations, large lounge areas, and an overall casual luxury vibe. Small cabana structures were studied to not conflict with the ocean view, but to also provide shade, and a sense of privacy for the guests.

Awards:

Winner! Design Et Al- International Hotel & Property Awards- Best Hotel over 200 Rooms

Finalist- Gold Key Awards- 2022- Boutique Design Magazine - Best Resort

Finalist- Gold Key Awards- 2022- Boutique Design Magazine - Best Wellness Resort

Finalist- Hospitality Design Awards- 2022- Hospitality Design Magazine - Best Resort

Finalist- Project of the Year 2022- Interior Design Magazine- Best Large Resort

Finalist! Design Et Al- International Hotel & Property Awards- Best Lobby/Public Space

Ownership: Parks LLC Mexico www.parks.com.mx Architect of Record: EDSA

Scope: New Build Hotel- Guestrooms and Public Space

Timeline: May 2019- Nov. 2019 Opening Date: 2022

Team Role: Remote consultant for full development of the concept, presentation, renderings, plans, specifications and documentation from Concept to Design Development

The Teppanyaki restaurant concept for the Live Aqua brand is a high end dining experience within the all-inclusive. Inspired by the traditional Japanese architecture, but mixed with the lively Tokyo anime scene, the restaurant gives the guests an opportunity of two experiences. The first experience being the exciting view of the Teppanyaki grill. The second experience being a more private sake tasting bar in a dark, yet vibrant zone.

Awards:

Winner! Design Et Al- International Hotel & Property Awards- Best Hotel over 200 Rooms

Finalist- Gold Key Awards- 2022- Boutique Design Magazine - Best Resort

Finalist- Gold Key Awards- 2022- Boutique Design Magazine - Best Wellness Resort

Finalist- Hospitality Design Awards- 2022- Hospitality Design Magazine - Best Resort

Finalist- Project of the Year 2022- Interior Design Magazine- Best Large Resort

Finalist! Design Et Al- International Hotel & Property Awards- Best Lobby/Public Space

Ownership: Parks LLC Mexico www.parks.com.mx Architect of Record: EDSA

Scope: New Build Hotel- Guestrooms and Public Space

Timeline: May 2019- Nov. 2019 Opening Date: 2022

Team Role: Remote consultant for full development of the concept, , presentation, renderings, plans, specifications and documentation from Concept to Design Development

Connected to the Live Aqua all inclusive is the more family oriented, Fiesta Americana All inclusive. Both are set on the same property. The Fiesta Americana brand is more fun, youthful and vibrant than the other, which allows more color opportunities.

The bar lounge is meant to be vibrant and family friendly but can transition from day to night seamlessly. The unique netting around the bar, combined with natural wood tones, sculptural artisan threaded screens throughout create a fun nod to the finishing communities of the area.

Awards:

Winner! Design Et Al- International Hotel & Property Awards- Best Hotel over 200 Rooms

Finalist- Gold Key Awards- 2022- Boutique Design Magazine - Best Resort

Finalist- Gold Key Awards- 2022- Boutique Design Magazine - Best Wellness Resort

Finalist- Hospitality Design Awards- 2022- Hospitality Design Magazine - Best Resort

Finalist- Project of the Year 2022- Interior Design Magazine- Best Large Resort

Finalist! Design Et Al- International Hotel & Property Awards- Best Lobby/Public Space

Ownership: Parks LLC Mexico www.parks.com.mx Architect of Record: EDSA

Scope: New Build Hotel- Guestrooms and Public Space

Timeline: May 2019- Nov. 2019 Opening Date: 2022

Team Role: Remote consultant for full development of the concept, presentation, renderings, plans, specification and documentation from Concept to Design Development

Connected to the Live Aqua all inclusive is the more family oriented, Fiesta American All inclusive. Both are set on the same property. The Fiesta Americana brand is more fun, youthful and vibrant than the other, which allows more color opportunities.

The Italiano restaurant at the property was inspired by cheese, wine, Tuscany and all things italian. Feature wine walls act as partitions, while the stunning black and copper pizza bar playfully is displayed with a cheese pun. Barrel ceilings, wine barrel art, and copper accents all help make this space feel vibrant, yet like you are home.

Awards:

Winner! Design Et Al- International Hotel & Property Awards- Best Hotel over 200 Rooms

Finalist- Gold Key Awards- 2022- Boutique Design Magazine - Best Resort

Finalist- Gold Key Awards- 2022- Boutique Design Magazine - Best Wellness Resort

Finalist- Hospitality Design Awards- 2022- Hospitality Design Magazine - Best Resort

Finalist- Project of the Year 2022- Interior Design Magazine- Best Large Resort

Finalist! Design Et Al- International Hotel & Property Awards- Best Lobby/Public Space

Ownership: Virgin Hotels/ Paradigm Group

Scope:New Build Hotel- Guestrooms and Public Space

Timeline: August 2015- February 2016- Project contract expired. Hotel Opened Dec. 2018

Team Role: Senior Designer, Project Management, CD documentation and Construction admin. (Four person team)

Overseen by/Mentor: Natalie Reeve

The Virgin Brand stands for fun, cheeky, and bold. The exciting opportunity to design the Virgin Hotel in San Francisco was met with challenges of project budget, timing, and multi-year construction delays. After the construction documentation phase, the project went on hold, and HBA did not renew the contract. Design intent and deliverables for the project were given to the client for them to implement when the project came alive once more. The final result is a stunning mix of traditional, modern, and layered design.

The metal rivits screen throughout the space were developed from the same pattern as the Golden Gate Bridge. A dramatic moulding wall greats you as you walk up the grand staircase. Elements of Victorian San Francisco are welcomed and expressed in a familiar, yet modern way that makes this property incredibly unique.