In conversation with Attila AE Domby, General Manager, Kimpton BEM Budapest (Exclusive Interview)

How is Kimpton BEM Hotel positioned in Budapest’s luxury market? USPs & comp set?

Kimpton BEM Budapest is positioned as a premier luxury lifestyle hotel that blends contemporary design with the rich cultural heritage of Budapest. Our unique selling points include our distinctive and colourful design by Marcel Wanders, personalized guest experiences in true Kimpton style, and a strong commitment to sustainability. 

We stand out from our competitors with our vibrant social spaces and rooftop bar, all of which contribute to a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the up-and-coming area of the Buda side of the Danube. Our competitive set includes other properties within walking distance, located on the flatland across the Danube in the area known as Pest, which cater to a mass of discerning travellers.

What is the guest profile? Which are your key feeder markets?

Our guest profile is diverse, attracting cool luxury travellers, business professionals, and those seeking unique cultural experiences in style. Key feeder markets include the USA, the UK, Germany, Asia, and the Middle East. We are also seeing growing interest from domestic guests, who appreciate our distinctive style, the convenience of on-site parking at the hotel, and our unique location on the Buda side, eliminating the need to cross the river to stay on the more prestigious side of the city.

Do you anticipate any changes considering the current international context?

As global events continue to shape the way people travel, we expect to see a shift towards more localized or regional travel, with a growing emphasis on sustainability, and unique experiences. Budapest, with its rich cultural heritage and reputation as a safe and welcoming European destination, is well-positioned to attract luxury travellers who are seeking both leisure and business opportunities in a vibrant yet secure and beautiful environment.

Is there still a clear distinction between leisure and corporate travellers?

The distinction between leisure and corporate travellers has become increasingly blurred among our targeted guests. Many now seek a blend of work and leisure during their stays, a trend often referred to as ‘bleisure.’ Our hotel is designed to cater to these hybrid, cool travellers, offering spaces that are conducive to both relaxation and productivity. Our all-day diner, AGOS restaurant, and BAR HUSO are all equipped with the latest technology. 

After work, guests are just a 5-minute run away from Budapest’s most beautiful running path on Margaret Island, located along the blue Danube.

To what extent are you targeting locals and non-resident guests? What is your view on Budapest as a luxury destination?

We place a strong emphasis on both local and non-resident guests, offering dining experiences that appeal to the top Hungarian 10%, while also attracting international hip travellers. I am always amazed when I compare Budapest to other European capitals, at how rich its history is: Just within walking distance from the Kimpton BEM Budapest, we have two Turkish bathhouses from the 16th century, one of which was recently renovated.

The Castle District behind us showcases the best of the Middle Ages and also the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy, while you can walk by Roman ruins and encounter remnants from both World Wars and the 1956 uprising. Divided by the blue Danube, Budapest is evolving as a luxury destination, with its visibly rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and emerging bold culinary landscape. We are proud to be part of this scene in 2024, offering a luxury experience that is uniquely Budapest while delivering personalized Kimpton-style service.

During development, the Ownership, the IHG Team, and I spent significant energy to focus on every detail to align with Marcel’s vision, from selecting the right glassware, crockery, and cutlery, to choosing the decor, lighting effects, and even the playlist, ensuring our guests feel they are truly in Budapest while experiencing something absolutely extraordinary.

Tell us more about the interior design concept and the choice of Marcel Wanders.

The interior design of Kimpton BEM Budapest is a bold, colourful, and imaginative creation by Marcel Wanders, renowned for his innovative and eclectic designs with sophistication. This visionary design was commissioned by Ownership, developed in collaboration with Kimpton and IHG, and expertly delivered by MARKET Constructions.

The design reflects the city’s rich cultural heritage through fun, bold elements while seamlessly introducing modern touches that surprise and delight. Marcel’s vision was to create a space that is both luxurious and playful, truly capturing Budapest’s dynamic spirit. There are only a few properties where the design has left me in awe, and I am honoured to be part of the project and team that so boldly brought Marcel’s vision to life, while ensuring it is operationally and logistically perfect.

How is the F&B offering conceived? What about the Wellness?

AGOS, our all-day-dining restaurant, is thoughtfully curated to offer a rich international breakfast, as well as an exceptional all-day-dining experience that showcases modern Mediterranean flavours with a Magyar (Hungarian) twist, all form local suppliers. Our feNNen rooftop bar, a secret garden with panoramic views, is a highlight for both guests and locals alike. In terms of wellness, our fitness center features the latest Technogym equipment, while our sauna and steam room are designed to provide a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation before or after a busy day.

What motivated the affiliation to IHG? How important is IHG® One Rewards?

Affiliating with IHG allows the hotel to combine the unique, Kimpton experience with the global standards and reach of IHG, attracting a specific clientele who are curious and eager to explore a city from a luxury perspective while immersing themselves in the local lifestyle of Budapest. Naturally, IHG® One Rewards is a crucial part of our strategy, enabling us to offer our guests enhanced benefits and a seamless experience at Kimpton BEM Budapest.

Many luxury hotels in the most diverse destinations are still challenged by staffing. What has been your approach?

We have focused on creating a highly positive work environment at Kimpton BEM Budapest, not only in the front but at the Heart of House, that attracts top talent. IHG is renowned for prioritising training, development, and well-being, ensuring that our teams feel valued and empowered. This approach, combined with the heartfelt Hungarian hospitality, allows us to maintain high service standards.

Which novelties shall we be anticipating for the rest of 2024?

Guests can look forward to more exciting offerings at Kimpton BEM Budapest. We’re enhancing our unique atmosphere by launching after-work sunset and cocktail events at our rooftop bar, taking full advantage of our proximity to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In addition to our curated local experiences that showcase Budapest’s rich cultural and culinary heritage, we will also be collaborating with local artists to feature their artwork in our Mezzanine Gallery. Our ongoing commitment to personalised service and guest satisfaction ensures that new features will continue to be introduced, further elevating the guest experience at Kimpton BEM.

 

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