Local materials were an important part of the project from its inception. Flooring in public areas is done in timber and off-white coral cement, “as a reminder that the hotel is situated on a coral reef,” while black accents reference the fact that the main island is volcanic. Other elements like timber (used for chandeliers and ceilings) and shells (on a wall feature behind the reception desk) also add a sense of place. “Renovation concepts always require good expertise of the existing before taking action on the [new] changes,” says Lefort, who is currently working on properties in Africa and China as well as some airport projects in Sardinia, Italy, and New York. hd www.didierlefort.com; www.lemeridien-borabora.com 230 hospitalitydesign www.hospitalitydesign.comhttp://www.didierlefort.com http://www.lemeridien-borabora.com http://www.hospitalitydesign.com