Aryburn by SA Studio and Alexander & Co - Hospitality Finalist 2024 and 2025.

Richard Thorburn: The transformation of Ayrburn, a multi-venue precinct between Queenstown and Arrowton, into what is truly a world-class development in New Zealand was a real stand-out for me. Mainly because it is so incredibly ambitious. The level of detail in each of the venues is amazing and retelling the story of the original site throughout the entire project truly respects the past.  

Amano Restaurant by McKinney + Windeatt Architects.  2017 Supreme Award and Hospitality Award winner.

Andrew Thorburn: Jack McKinney’s Amano is a real testament to a well-designed project that, eight years on, still feels like it was only opened recently. Not only does it have great furniture but the use of stunning materials such as the back-lit mother-of-pearl shell in the reception island, elegant terazzo floors and beautiful dried flowers make this a timeless hospitality venue and an enduring favourite.  

ECC was asked to select a product from their portfolio that the design industry should know more about. The team selected the Ma’am Armchair, by artist and designer Verter Turroni of Imperfetto Lab in Italy.

The elegant and refined Ma’am armchair recalls the captivating compsoure of a noble lady. Its imposing silhouette steals the show from every other element — its unique shape captures the eye while the soft seat invites guests to relax in its large space. Turroni and his wife Emanuela Ravelli founded the studio in 1992 and each exclusive piece they create is made from a common mould, which is then sanded, painted, and hand-polished. Their pieces are mainly manufactured in versatile, lightweight fibreglass, which is resistant to any weather conditions and therefore suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Imperfetto Lab combines exceptional attention to detail with first-class craftsmanship, making each design a work-of-art. Their own gallery promotes a wide range of art research projects, and organises exhibitions and performances, where artists can experiment with and validate their work.