Hospitality Lessons from Around the Globe
Inspiration Behind Liquid & Larder’s Newest Venues
When it comes to creating standout spaces, we believe inspiration goes beyond decor or dishware – it’s about a feeling. That’s why, at Liquid & Larder, we’re constantly taking notes from some of the most extraordinary hotels worldwide. From the welcoming warmth of Japanese hospitality to the grandiosity of old-school European elegance, our venues aim to blend these standout styles into unique experiences for our guests.
Where are these influences coming from? Here’s a glimpse at the places and elements that left a lasting impression on our directors Warren Burns and James Bradey, and now serve as creative fuel for our latest venues.
The Ned, London
Another standout inspiration is London’s The Ned, a sprawling yet cohesive destination that delivers a new experience around every corner. Six or seven restaurants bustle around its main foyer, with live jazz playing and an ambience that evolves with every visit, morning through night. It’s more than a space, it’s an experience that keeps you wandering, enticed to explore. The Ned’s confident, variety-rich vibe inspired us to think big and create spaces that captivate guests, whether they’re exploring with friends or savouring a solo escape.
Shinmonzen, Kyoto
Kyoto’s Shinmonzen offered an insight into Japanese hospitality known as omotenashi – the joy of welcoming and caring for guests with genuine warmth. The staff’s attentiveness at Shinmonzen was astounding: they made each guest feel noticed and special. For example, they brought a cartoon book for one of our team member’s daughters and left charming origami tokens on the pillows each day. It’s those little touches, moments of attentiveness that guests don’t expect but remember, that we aim to bring to our venues, fostering a unique and memorable sense of welcome.
Villa Sant’Andrea, Taormina, Sicily
A gem of the Belmond collection, Villa Sant’Andrea in Sicily radiates a classic European charm and confidence. Walking into its refined lobby, you get a feeling of elegance rooted in history, like stepping into a bygone era where icons like Frank Sinatra once unwound. The service was polished, and warm without being overbearing, confident, rather than clingy. We walked away from this experience inspired to bring a similar balance to our venues with that same polished charm and effortless sophistication.
The Calile Hotel, Brisbane
In Brisbane’s The Calile Hotel, we found a blend of cohesion and rejuvenation in every corner. With airy, light-filled spaces and a scent that subtly transports you from the lobby to the pool, this hotel’s vibe is electric, giving you that “holiday” feeling – even on a work trip. It’s luxurious, relaxed, and, as we like to say, has “something special.” It’s the energy of Calile we’re infusing into our venues, a sense of escape where you feel elevated and relaxed all at once.
One key takeaway from our travels? Balance. In hospitality, this means knowing when to engage and when to let guests simply enjoy their time. We found that while some venues worldwide have perfected this art, others can lean too far, overwhelming guests with overly attentive service. Our approach? To be present without intruding, giving guests the freedom to enjoy each other’s company while ensuring they feel cared for. This balance is at the heart of every Liquid & Larder venue.
From Tokyo to London, each of these destinations has taught us something unique, and we’re excited to bring those lessons to life at our newest venues, Bar Julius and Lottie, inside The EVE Hotel in Redfern.