York hostel The Fort gets individual look
A boutique hostel in York, The Fort, recently launched a competition to "identify the next generation of design talent", briefing entrants to individually design its rooms.
The results range from log cabin-inspiration to graffiti art.
The competition was arranged by the entrepreneur Karen Waugh, who already owns Kennedy’s Bar and restaurant in York city centre, in collaboration with Creative Protege and design agency Nugenko.
"The competition I ran with Creative Protege was integral to the project as I felt allowing young designers to stamp their design on this project will give this place a sense of identity and create something I believe we will all be extremely proud of," said Waugh. "We received countless entries, but we narrowed it down to the very best.
“This is just phase one in an exciting business venture that has taken Europe by storm. Offering the level of accommodation you would expect in a four star hotel for only £20 a night I’m sure will appeal to everyone.”
Winning designs included the ‘Memory Field’ by Mark Brear. The concept included hundreds of shots of York incorporated in a swathe of designs within the chosen room.
Another of the competition winners was Matt Sypien, 25, a student from Bradford University and freelance graphic designer: “My proposal was incorporated into an Apple themed room (pictured); my original designs were placed onto bright white walls to create a contemporary look. There will also be the option for you to dock your iPod into the wall and listen to your playlist through an integral speaker system. Trust me, I will be staying there.”