carpets, and period furniture combine to create the more
formal atmosphere. Many functions such as business
meetings and receptions are held in these elegant
surroundings.
Then comes the famous Author���s Lounge, a lofty greenand-white atrium space flooded with flattering light from
an opaque domed roof high above. Here the mood is
also of another era, one of casually arranged white wicker
chairs and sofas, cushions printed with a tropical design
of elephants and palm trees, towering stalks of feathery
bamboo, louvered shutters, and Victorian fretwork above
doors and windows; a grand piano provides a soft musical
accompaniment to the pleasures of high tea (more than
fifteen varieties, plus a tempting assortment of pastries
and sandwiches) in the afternoon.
HYLAND
