As Marriott’s president of luxury, Tina Edmundson oversees the juggernaut’s eight luxury brands — familiar names like The Ritz-Carlton and St Regis Hotels.
She joined Marriott in 2008 and was made president in 2023 since expanding the luxury side of things with ventures such as The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. We speak to Edmundson about Marriott’s branded residences, including the new openings and her favorite project.
Click here to read our article on how the world’s biggest hotel brands are investing in luxury branded residences
How does Marriott define a branded residence? How do these residences fit into the Marriott portfolio?
Marriott Branded Residences are exclusive, whole-ownership properties that embody the exceptional design, service and attention to detail synonymous with our renowned global hospitality brands.
These residences come in two forms: co-located with a hotel, offering an integrated hospitality experience; or as standalone properties that exist independently but still carry the distinct identity of the brand.
Approximately 70% of our luxury residential pipeline is co-located with a hotel, reflecting continued interest in the seamless blend of home and hospitality. Each residence is deeply rooted in its brand’s DNA, delivering a luxury lifestyle experience that mirrors the elevated service and design of our luxury hotels.
How do each of the residences differ?
Each brand has its distinct voice, personality and offering that is reflected throughout the property, as well as the personalized service, lifestyle programming and curated services — whether that is for guests in a hotel or an owner of a branded residence. For example, JW Marriott, rooted in our founder’s approach to life and holistic well-being, offers a haven designed to allow guests to focus on feeling whole — present in mind, nourished in body and revitalized in spirit.
The JW Marriott Residences, Grand Marina Saigon, which just celebrated its grand opening in February (it’s our first JW Marriott Residence in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation region) offers luxury urban living where residents can focus on their well-being in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.
Meanwhile, the upcoming W Residences Pompano Beach will blend the brand’s signature lifestyle hospitality approach, infused with bold design and dynamic energy, all in a sophisticated beachfront setting.
What influences the success of these residences?
The remarkable growth of Marriott’s residences over the past 25 years speaks to the trust and loyalty people have toward our brands. Residence owners are drawn to more than just beautiful design — they’re seeking a way of life, one rooted in elevated living, global recognition and a strong sense of belonging.
Our properties offer the opportunity to bring the brand promise guests know and love into their everyday life at home. They want to check in and never check out.
Have you noticed any emerging preferences from buyers in terms of design/layout?
Wellness continues to be a top priority, but the expectation has evolved far beyond a dedicated fitness center. Owners now seek a space where they can have everything they need and expect in their wellness routine, with additional access to enhanced experiences. Today’s luxury homeowner wants a complete ecosystem that supports mental, physical and emotional well-being.
This includes everything from on-site locations for mindfulness and meditation to world-class spas with cold plunges. We are also seeing an evolution of the demographic interested in purchasing branded residences, as the transfer of wealth moves to younger generations; we are continuing to make sure we meet the needs of these evolving buyer interests. Their preferences are shaping the future of residential design.
For instance, at The Ritz-Carlton Residences North Hills in Long Island, NY, we saw an increasing number of families with young kids purchasing homes. After closely listening to current and potential homeowners, the property designed an on-site playground for residents to enjoy with their kids — a simple but meaningful addition.
