Originally Posted by
scented
Totally agree with you that Armani would be a bad choice and I can't see Armani working well in the London market. The targeted clientele already loves Bulgari.
Don't believe it is Park Hyatt, personally -- although I haven't heard anything. Doronin could bring in a consortium to purchase and develop, but remember he bought Aman Corporate and created the new holding, A.H. Overseas, but I don't see him owning too many Amans around the world, aside from those already in ownership (think Jena 50% etc). This wouldn't make too much sense. Bought NYC building also in partnership, along with Michael Shvo.
Agreed. Aman would be operator, not owner--since the Admiralty Arch building is a long term lease. I'd heard rumors of Aman looking in Mayfair, but this historic building is so right up Aman's alley.
I also have a tough time imagining Park Hyatt, but its Vienna bank conversion was a big hard product success (even if its soft product needs work). Still, it likely will make a play here or for the former US embassy as it definitely wants a London presence. I'm assuming the US embassy will become a St. Regis since the Qatari ownership already has numerous St. Regis properties in its portfolio.