AlmaLusa Baixa/Chiado
Lisbon, Portugal
Located on the peaceful Praça de Munícipio is AlmaLusa Hotels’ debut boutique hotel AlmaLusa Baixa/Chiado. The 28-room hotel, originally the city’s arsenal, emphasises all things Portuguese for a historically rich and elegantly contemporary feel. The in-house Delfina restaurant serves up delicious traditional Portuguese dishes with a brasserie vibe, while designer Giano Gonçalves weaves in the 18th century building’s original framework with modern comfort and technology. With each room designed in an individual style, this new Lisbon jewel promises to deliver a stylish stay infused with Portuguese culture.
Find out more about AlmaLusa Baixa/Chiado here
Twr Y Felin Hotel
Pembrokeshire, UK
Recently refurbished by Hong-Kong based designers Aedas Interiors, this 21-room hotel has turned into a sleek gem in the Welsh countryside. Inspired by its location on the St Davids peninsula, Aedas produced interiors featuring customised furniture in a mix of dark browns and greys that complemented the property’s natural surroundings. Thoughtfully hypoallergenic, their designs also preserved original architectural elements such as the interestingly shaped rooms and bronze traceried windows. Colour brings the rooms to life in the form of specially commissioned artworks by both international and local artists such as Harry Adams.
Writer: Daven Wu, Elana Wong
Find out more about Twr Y Felin Hotel here
Palazzo Dama
Milan, Italy
Owned by the Malaspina family, the Palazzo Dama is a 30-room hotel located in Rome. The five-star hotel is one of the few independent palazzos open to the public, featuring a Mediterranean garden, petite outdoor pool and an exclusive subterranean nightclub. Architect Antonio Girardi has ensured the villa retains its decadence, maintaining much of its original grand details and adding only the finest furnishings such as vintage Venini glass fixtures and lithographs of Warhol and Picasso pieces.
Writer: Emilee Tombs, Elana Wong
Find out more about Palazzo Dama here
Urban Cowboy Bed and Breakfast
Nashville, USA
Located in the up-and-coming area of East Nashville, this little hotel surrounded by hip boutiques, dive bars and craft coffee is not your usual bed and breakfast. A restored 19th century Victorian mansion, it contains eight unique suites, an onsite bar and two communal parlours. Each individually designed by owner Lyon Porter, the rooms are an unexpected combination of the original Victorian features, including clawfoot tubs, with the artistic culture of Nashville.
Writer: Logan Leasure, Elana Wong
Find out more about Urban Cowboy here
Hôtel Saint Marc
Paris, France
Built in 1791, the mansion in which the Hôtel Saint Marc is housed is filled with French history. After owners Nadia Murano and Denis Nourry acquired the 26-room property in 2013, they tasked Italian designers Dimore Studio with its restoration and interior design. It is now fitted with a small heated swimming pool, a Turkish bath and a glass-topped courtyard converted from the central room. Combined with art deco furnishings, top quality fabrics and a colour scheme of pastel blues, reds and blush, the mansion has been restored to a new bright, but luxurious, glory.
Writer: Daven Wu, Elana Wong
Find out more about Hôtel Saint Marc here
Hotel Panache
Paris, France
Located just ten minutes from the famous Galaries Lafayette, this 40 room, three-star hotel emanates quirky Parisian soul. Owned by Hotel Paradis’ Adrien Gloaguen, with Dorothée Meilichzon at the design helm, they have embraced the strange configurations and shape of the rooms with unexpected furnishings, while continuing the theme in an adjoining restaurant offering up quality French neo-bistro food and natural wines. With a colour scheme of blues, greys and rusty accents, set against a backdrop of punchy black and white patterns, the hotel delivers a graphic, retro feel with a sophisticated touch.
Writer: Rooksana Hossenally, Elana Wong
Find out more about Hotel Panache here
The Axiom
San Francisco, USA
Inspired by San Francisco’s tech scene, the former historical Turpin Hotel has been revamped into a boutique property. Under the direction of New York-based designers Stonehill & Taylor, the building has become a tasteful merging of both worlds, combining the original iron features with new innovations such as ‘glitchings’. The in-house Turn Café offers up fresh, organic dishes in line with millennial culture, such as artisan sandwiches and handcrafted cocktails.
Writer: Ella Marshall, Elana Wong
Find out more about The Axiom here
The Axiom
San Francisco, CA
Dressed in a neutral colour scheme with punchy accents of magenta and blue, combined with midcentury style furnishings, the hotel feels at once modern and classically sophisticated.
Writer: Ella Marshall, Elana Wong
Find out more about The Axiom here
The Late Birds
Lisbon, Portugal
Situated in a quiet spot on the vibrant Bairro Alto, this unique hotel by Carlos Ruiva and Sónia Santiago is an all-male gay guesthouse with an emphasis on community. Portuguese architect Pedro Domingos was tasked with redesigning the 18th century heritage building, creating 12 rooms, including three suites and cosy public spaces, and a pool courtyard. With a classic, simple look from the use of natural materials, the interiors were furnished with custom pieces by local designer Marco Sousa Santos, combined with antiques collected by the owners, such as an African totem pole.
Writer: Chadner Navarro, Elana Wong
Find out more about The Late Birds here
Brae Accommodation
Birregurra, Australia
Brae Accomodation is a hotel with a purpose. Located in the town of Birregurra, chef Dan Hunter and his team opened Brae Accommodation to provide for overnight stays as demand in the area grew in response to his hit restaurant Brae. Comprising six suites on the 30-acre property, it was designed by Melbourne-based Six Degree Architects and interior design firm Studio Round.
Writer: Carrie Hutchinson, Elana Wong
Find out more about Brae Accommodation here
Brae Accommodation
Birregurra, Australia
Designed to mirror the restaurant, the rooms are spacious and contemporary and feature sleek custom furnishings. In line with Brae’s emphasis on a connection with the land and locality, the building is constructed and maintained with sustainable materials and feature artworks by local artist Rhys Lee.
Writer: Carrie Hutchinson, Elana Wong
Find out more about Brae Accommodation here
Bill & Coo Coast Suites
Mykonos, Greece
With private pools and luxury services on offer, this small property in Mykonos could be every couple’s dream Greek honeymoon. The 15 spacious suites look over the Aegean Sea, ensured by landscape architect Greenways, which built natural screens that protect from the wind and sun without compromising the view. Inside, British interior designer k-studio used an elegant colour scheme of white, shades of light grey, and accents of pale wood and black. With notably smooth surfaces and marble floors, Bill & Coo reflect and complement the simple Mykonian aesthetic with a sleek, sophisticated twist.
Writer: Daven Wu, Elana Wong
Find out more about Bill & Coo here
Setouchi Aonagi
Matsuyama, Japan
Located on Shikoku Island, outside the city of Matsuyama, is a small luxury hotel overseen by architect Tadao Ando. Overlooking the Seto inland sea, the retreat contains seven rooms, a visually striking outdoor lap pool and Japanese restaurant Minagi, which carefully prepares fresh kaiseki multi-course dinners that emphasise the local seafood.
Writer: Jens H Jensen, Elana Wong
Find out more about Setouchi Aonagi here
Setouchi Aonagi
Matsuyama, Japan
With designs overseen by Tadao Ando, the property reflects his signature minamalist style with large exposed concrete surfaces and open spaces in clean lines and neutral colours.
Writer: Jens H Jensen, Elana Wong
Find out more about Satouchi Aonagi here
Senato Hotel
Milan, Italy
Run by the Ranza family, this Milan boutique hotel was once their private family residence. Now housing 43 luxury rooms, architect Alessandro Bianchi was tasked with transforming the residence, and produced the sleek, luxe interiors featuring marble surfaces and wood parquets.
Writer: JJ Martin, Elana Wong
Find out more about Senato Hotel here
Senato Hotel
Milan, Italy
Employing top quality Milanese talent to build his custom designed furnishings, he dressed the rooms in a striking colour scheme of white, matte black, dark green and gold for a quiet, regal elegance.
Writer: JJ Martin, Elana Wong
Find out more about Senato Hotel here
Azur Real
Córdoba, Argentina
Built in 1915, Azur Real fits right into the vibrant historic city of Córdoba. Local architect Lućia Roland of Capó Estudio and Buenos Aires-based interior designer Sofía Camps have updated the building to contain modern hotel services such as the outdoor terrace and pool. Creating a neutral palette of soft browns, greys and beiges, accented by occasional bright lime furnishings and the original brick detailing, they create a balanced space of old and new in harmony.
Writer: Mariana Rapoport, Elana Wong
Find out more about Azur Real here
Azur Real
Córdoba, Argentina
The 16 light-filled rooms, though having undergone a bigger transformation, feature sleek, warm wood designs with woven fabric furnishings to continue an elegant rustic feel.
Writer: Mariana Rapoport, Elana Wong
Find out more about Azur Real here
Arenales Hotel
Buenos Aires, Argentina
In a pioneer location in Barrio Norte, Daniela Mourente opened the Arenales Hotel steps away from Santa Fé Avenue. Designed by architect Julio Oropel, the 1970s building was revamped using a distinctive trio of mirrors, white steel sheets and Slavonian Oak. Using a colourscheme of soft greys and whites, Oropel adds colour to the 37 rooms with locally produced furnishings and vintage items. The hotel also contains a restaurant-bar offering up gastronomic cuisine and artisanal desserts.
Writer: Mariana Rapoport, Elana Wong
Find out more about Arenales Hotel here
Marktgasse Hotel
Zürich, Switzerland
In the heart of Zürich’s Old Town is the Marktgasse Hotel, formerly one of Zürich’s oldest inns, dating back to the 1200s. Updated by Basel-based firm Miller & Maranta, interior designers Kessler & Kessler and IDA14, the ancient building has undergone a restoration and renovation to become the chic hotel it is today.
Writer: Daven Wu, Elana Wong
Find out more about Marktgasse Hotel here
Marktgasse Hotel
Zürich, Switerland
Featuring 39 rooms, a café and an adjoining bar and restaurant, the designers have balanced the original stucco work, wall panelling and columns with sleek Scandinavian minimalism and Italian furnishings.
Writer: Daven Wu, Elana Wong
Find out more about Marktgasse Hotel here
Hôtel Providence
Paris, France
Housed in an 1854 Haussmannien building, this lavish hotel is located in the young, trendy Eastern district of Paris. Opened by Pierre Moussié, the property features 18 individually decorated rooms as well as a hotel bar and restaurant serving up fine regional cuisine. The rooms contain luxury amenities such as iMacs, and feature bold colour schemes of rich, dark primary colours punctuated by plush furniture and patterned wallpaper. Furnishings like marble fireplaces and art deco light fixtures stand out in the hushed ambience of the hotel, giving the atmosphere of an English hunting lodge-meets Parisian home.
Writer: Rooksana Hossenally, Elana Wong
Find out more about Hôtel Providence here
Casa Fayette
Guadalajara, Mexico
In the arts district of Guadalajara is Casa Fayette, the latest of Grupo Habita’s boutique design hotels. It is split into two sections: the old colonial house containing the hotel’s public areas, and a new tower block housing the rooms, pool and spa. Curated by Milanese designers Dimore Studio, the 37 rooms feature pale green headboards against dominant colours of blue, grey and white, and marble bathrooms with clawfoot tubs.
Writer: Michelle McDermott, Elana Wong
Find out more about Casa Fayette here
Casa Fayette
Guadalajara, Mexico
In the public spaces of the main building, colours are richly dark and sophisticated, evoking a midcentury modern meets Jalisco artisan feel, particularly the bar, as the Barragán-inspired palette echoes brilliantly lush tropical prints.
Writer: Michelle McDermott, Elana Wong
Find out more about Casa Fayette here
The Buchanan
San Francisco, USA
Situated at the edge of San Francisco’s Japantown, The Buchanan draws decorative inspiration from its location’s heritage. Nicole Hollis Interior Design contrasts textures of crisp cotton and worn leather, and combines distinct materials and furnishings like earth-tone pottery and Japanese whiskey barrel staves to evoke the rich cultures embedded in the neighbourhood.
Furnishings such as shibori-print pillows in the rooms, set against a colour scheme of charcoals, whites and deep greens combined with sophisticated matte blacks and modern fixtures, provide a contemporary reference to Japanese culture.
Writer: Chaney Kwak, Elana Wong
Find out more about The Buchanan here
Cumbres Lastarria
Santiago, Chile
Located in the boho district of Lastarria, Santiago, this boutique hotel has drawn attention from both hip locals and visitors alike. Local architect and owner Rodrigo Errázuriz designed its striking, daring façade, while interior designers Enrique Concha and Andrés Martínez combined custom modern furnishings with old-style accents for a contemporary twist on Chilean heritage. With luxe rooms containing replica Masters decorative headboards, and quality services such as a heated swimming pool and Mediterranean restaurant, there's no wonder it has become the place to be.
Writer: Mariana Rapoport, Elana Wong
Find out more about Cumbres Lastarria here
The Club
Singapore
Situated in Singapore’s vibrant Chinatown quarter, The Club is a hospitality and lifestyle destination containing a 20-room boutique hotel, two trendy bars and two restaurants, including the award-winning The Disgruntled Chef. Housed in a row of perfectly preserved 20th century shophouses, every space has been reimagined and utilised, such as the Peruvian rooftop bar and a basement bijou lounge.
Writer: Daven Wu, Elana Wong
Find out more about The Club here
The Club
Singapore
Designed by Singapore-based interior design firm Distillery Studio, the rooms and lobby space feature a muted palette of rust, olive greens and mustard set against vintage furniture, customised marble and wooden furniture that evokes Singapore’s colonial houses.
Writer: Daven Wu, Elana Wong
Find out more about The Club here
Rivertown Lodge
Hudson, USA
Located a two hour train ride away from Manhattan, in the town of Hudson, New York, Rivertown Lodge is a 27-room hotel housed in a former 1920s motor inn. Revamped by Brooklyn-based design firms Workstead, the hotel contains a built-in kitchen, a tavern offering crafted cocktails by mixologists Natasha David and Jeremy Ortel, and a restaurant menu by Jean Adamson.
Writer: Pei-Ru Keh, Elana Wong
Find out more about Rivertown Lodge here
Rivertown Lodge
Hudson, USA
Featuring homey shades of soft blue and yellow, against largely white walls, clean lines and wood detailing, Workstead also added vintage pieces such as wood burning stoves. The rooms continue this theme with rustic furnishings, such as brass lighting and cast iron accents, to evoke an aesthetic dubbed ‘early American modern’.
Writer: Pei-Ru Keh, Elana Wong
Find out more about Rivertown Lodge here
H10 Duque de Loulé
Lisbon, Portugal
Opened by Spanish H10 Hotels, this 89-room boutique property is, unusually, located in Lisbon’s financial district. The hotel now also offers the services of a large meeting room, the Azul e Branco restaurant and the beautiful Equestre library bar. Converted from a former 18th century convent, designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán, having previously worked on projects such as Cotton House Hotel in Barcelona, was inspired by the famous azujelos decorative tiles.
Writer: Chadner Navarro, Elana Wong
Find out more about H10 Duque de Loulé here
H10 Duque de Loulé
Lisbon, Portugal
Working with local talents, he combined traditional features such as wood-panelled ceilings with contemporary furnishings, and used a palette of clean, fresh whites punctuated by pale woods and bright shades of blue. Adding to its charm is the Limão rooftop bar terrace, boasting views over downtown Lisbon.
Writer: Chadner Navarro, Elana Wong
Find out more about H10 Duque de Loulé here
Tuve
Hong Kong, China
Hidden in an enclave off Causeway Bay, devoid of signage, is nondescript boutique hotel Tuve. Designed by Hong Kong firm Design Systems, the hotel contains 66 rooms with their own distinctive look of sharp angles, minimalist furniture and smooth, clear surfaces of marble, wood and concrete offset by pale, elegant furniture in neutral colours.
Writer: Jonathan Hopfner, Elana Wong
Find out more about Tuve here
Tuve
Hong Kong, China
Despite its simplicity, the hotel offers luxury in the form of fine linens, complimentary smartphones, gourmet snacks and beverages, as well as innovative restaurant Silver Room, which serves Japanese influenced Italian fusion cuisine on the ground floor.
Writer: Jonathan Hopfner, Elana Wong
Find out more about Tuve here
Hotel Monteverde
Lixa, Portugal
Located on Portugal’s Rota da Vinho, family-run Quinta da Lixa winery has opened a new hotel. Designed by local architect Fernando Coelho, the ruins of two worker’s homes have been transformed into a property that includes 15 guestrooms, a restaurant, bar, spa and two swimming pools. In a palette of warm rusts and greens the architecture, which is created out of granite and shale and clad with Portuguese pine, pays respect to the landscape, inviting guests to immerse themselves in its fruits.
Writer: Justin Jaekle, Elana Wong
Find out more about Hotel Monteverde here
La Fiermontina
Lecce, Italy
Located in Lecce’s historic quarter, owner Fouad Filali opened La Fiermontina after acquiring the 17th century house and observing the lack of good hotels in the area. Refurbished by Puglian architect Antonio Annicchiarico, the hotel contains 16 unique suites, an outdoor swimming pool, private olive garden and a restaurant offering a modern twist on traditional Pugliese cuisine. Featuring traditional pietra di Trani floors and the original baroque architecture, a neutral colour scheme of beige and blush is complemented by original art and furnishings from Filali’s personal collection, including pieces by Le Corbusier, and darker accents.
Writer: Cynthia Rosenfeld, Elana Wong
Find out more about La Fiermontina here
Hôtel du Ministère
Paris, France
The Hôtel du Ministère, located near the Champs-Elysées, has unveiled its new extension, which added 18 rooms to its pre-existing 24. Designed by interior designer and architect François Champsaur, the rooms have a Mondrian-esque scheme of bright primary colours against a neutral backdrop, combined with furnishings such as graphic curtains and mid-century Italian furnishings. Other areas of the hotel, including the new breakfast room, also received the same neo-modernist feel, along with a host of artworks by artists such as David Lynch.
Writer: Jessica Klingelfuss, Elana Wong
Find out more about Hotel du Ministere here
Primero Primera
Barcelona, Spain
Located in the residential Les Tres Torres neighbourhood, this property, built almost 60 years ago by Carlos Pérez-Sala, has been spruced up into a 30-room hotel. Now containing a garden pool surrounded by well-maintained, yet lush, foliage and a bar, Pérez-Sala’s descendents have kept the building’s 1950s façade but updated the original interior framework for a more contemporary feel.
Writer: Lauren Ho, Elana Wong
Find out more about Primero Primera here
Primero Primera
Barcelona, Spain
The public spaces have colour schemes of either an earthy combination of muted greens and browns, or neutrals punctuated with pops of red, while the individually designed rooms are light and airy in neutrals of white, browns and dark blues. Odd original furniture pieces and the aged timber flooring, as well as the addition of rich furnishings such as leather armchairs and Persian rugs to the common areas, add luxurious warmth.
Writer: Lauren Ho, Elana Wong
Find out more about Primero Primera here
The Hoxton
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Housed in four historic merchant’s houses, the Hoxton Shoreditch has launched a new branch on Amsterdam’s Herengracht canal. Overseen by local studio Nicemakers, their Rijksmuseum-inspired design features a warm palette of rich blues, greys and mustards combined with locally crafted furnishings and vintage pieces.
Writer: Rachel Moloney, Elana Wong
Find out more about The Hoxton here
The Hoxton
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
One notable feature are the hotels walls: the rooms and certain public areas, including Italian restaurant Lotti’s, boast fine wood paneling, while other spaces have charming tiled walls that juxtapose against the luxurious furniture.
Writer: Rachel Moloney, Elana Wong
Find out more about The Hoxton here
Hôtel Bachaumont
Paris, France
Located in the 2nd arrondissement neighbourhood of Sentier, is the debut hotel by fashion retail magnate Samy Marciano. The 49-room property was re-designed by Dorothée Meilichzon, who paired dark wood furniture, marble floors and her signature art deco furnishings with a neutral colour scheme of whites, beiges, rich blues and black accents that parallel the façade.
Writer: Rooksana Hossenally, Elana Wong
Find out more about Hôtel Bachaumont here
Hôtel Bachaumont
Paris, France
Restaurant Bauchamont’s interior follows the same vein. Run by the owners of the Experimental Cocktail Club, the addition of brightly printed blue and purple fabrics, combine with luxurious brasserie-style furnishings, encapsulates a glamorous retro style with a contemporary touch.
Writer: Rooksana Hossenally, Elana Wong
Find out more about Hôtel Bachaumont here
Chetzeron
Crans-Montana, Switzerland
On the slopes of Crans-Montana, Swiss Lebanese hotelier Sami Lamaa has repurposed an abandoned cable car station into a boutique property. Designed by Lausanne-based architects Actescollectifs, the hotel now contains 16 rooms and suites, a restaurant and an airy lounge area with breathtaking views. The rooms, dressed in a pale, neutral colour scheme and bespoke furnishings, stand in elegant contrast to the view.
Writer: TF Chan, Elana Wong
Find out more about Chetzeron here
Amastan
Paris, France
Placed between rue do Faubourg Saint-Honoré and the Avenue des Champs-Elysées, Amastan is inspired by the classic codes of Parisian apartment architecture. Local studio NOCC have filled the space with luxe detailing and finishes, including ombre marble, ash, lacquered oak, copper and brass. On the ground floor, a bespoke tapestry by designer Jan Kath drapes one wall, while floors are sheathed in petrol blue herringbone parquet; an unexpected twist on a classic. Guests seeking nightcaps and snacks may find themselves cosseted in the quietly eclectic bar, Anouk, where a collection of thirty different species of trees, plants and flowers are scattered amongst rock shelving that also doubles up as seating. Elsewhere, a two-floor library and a publicly accessible project space showcasing thought-provoking ollaborative pop-up installations entice both guests and locals, and announce Amastan’s arrival on the city’s active hotel scene, loud and clear.
Writer: Ella Marshall
Find out more about Amastan here
Chetzeron
Crans-Montana, Switzerland
Restaurant Chetzeron serves up a refined take on Alpine cuisine paired with Valaisian wines while the terrace areas, overlooking the beautiful Rhône valley, are fitted out with picnic tables, loungers, sheepskins and a pool for outdoor après-ski relaxing.
Writer: TF Chan, Elana Wong
Find out more about Chetzeron here
The Landsby
Solvang, USA
Located in the Danish-style town of Solvang, the former Petersen Village Inn has been revamped into The Landsby. Renovated by Santa Monica-based Studio Collective, the hotel contains 41 rooms, a new bar and lounge, as well as a restaurant serving up wine-country cuisine. With a neutral, clean colour scheme combined with woods, white oak floors and handcrafted furnishings in blue or mustard, the property receives a contemporary feel without compromising its Scandinavian aesthetic. Handmade wall tapestries have been dotted throughout the space along with LA artist Rachel Brown’s colour animal portraits, which add a playful touch.
Writer: Carole Dixon, Elana Wong
Find out more about The Landsby here
Tribute Hotel
Hong Kong, China
Located in the Yau Ma Tei neighbourhood, British architect Alex Jones has launched the Tribute Hotel. Referencing local influences through quirky details such as a check-in desk inspired by traditional dim sum trolleys, the hotel lives up to its name. Fitted out by interior designer Candace Campos, the 24 rooms feature understated, earthy hues and bold works by local artist Trevor Yeung, custom-made ceramics and other bespoke Hong Kong-inspired furniture. Despite the lack of restaurant, Tribute’s room service delivers some of the best local fare, including eatery Sham Tsai Kee’s famous wonton noodles.
Writer: Catherine Shaw, Elana Wong
Find out more about Tribute Hotel here
Luna2 Studiotel
Bali, Indonesia
Designed by Melanie Hall with a futuristic yet slightly retro look, Luna2 Studiotel is a refreshing departure from the usual aesthetics of Bali villas. The hotel contains luxury amenities and facilities, including a small, private 16-seater cinema – 'the Lunaplex' – and a brightly coloured outdoor pool fitted with an underwater sound system.
Writer: Alix O'Neill, Elana Wong
Find out more about Luna2 Studiotel here
Luna2 Studiotel
Bali, Indonesia
Above basement bar Pop!, restaurant Orbit serves up playful gastronomic cuisine inspired by merely having fun, while rooftop bar Space offers not just quality champagne, cocktails and caviar, but also views over the ocean. The luxury of the hotel extends to the 14 studios, which each offer three TVs, as well as both iPad and iPod docks.
Writer: Alix O'Neill, Elana Wong
Find out more about Luna2 Studiotel here
Luna2 Studiotel
Bali, Indonesia
Featuring decorative nods to dutch artist Piet Mondrian – such as murals and wall hangings in his signature De Stijl style – the property is decked out in a palette of white, black and grey, combined with bold punches of colour and sophisticated walnut furnishings.
Writer: Alix O'Neill, Elana Wong
Find out more about Luna2 Studiotel here
Alma
Tel Aviv, Israel
Located in Tel Aviv's White City district, surrounded by beaches, bars and galleries, the Alma building was originally designed as a private residence by architect Dov Tchendovski in 1925. It has been restored and turned into a boutique hotel by design team Shaltiel-Kastiel, along with mosaic and glass artist Lauri Recanati, and features an eclectic mix of rich colours, vintage furniture and modern comforts.
Writer: Lauren Ho, Elana Wong
Find out more about Alma here
Baystone Boutique Hotel & Spa
Grand Baie, Mauritius
Overlooking the affluent inlet of Grand Baie, this boutique hotel breaks the resort mould. Designed by New York-based architect Albert Angel, it features furnishings, walls and false ceilings with undulating contours and rippling relief, highlighted by electric jellyfish-like chandeliers. Three Sky Suites, located on the top floor, offer dramatic views over the bay and a rooftop swimming pool.
Writer: Lauren Ho, Elana Wong
Find out more about Baystone here
Baystone Boutique Hotel & Spa
Grand Baie, Mauritius
Opened by Jean-Pierre Vissuzaine with celebrated local chef Franco Salon, two restaurants serve seasonal dishes that change daily, while The Sky Spa offers a range of treatments using products from French cosmetic brand Thalion.
Writer: Lauren Ho, Elana Wong
Find out more about Baystone here
Grand Pigalle Hôtel
Paris, France
Opened by Experimental Cocktail Club’s Romée de Goriainoff, Olivier Bon and Pierre-Charles Cros, this new boutique hotel in South Pigalle is a ‘bed and beverage’ property. The hotel contains 37 rooms, an Italian wine bar, and a restaurant by Rino’s Giovanni Passerini. Designed by Dorothée Meilichzon, the interiors burst with a contemporary-retro Parisian style, featuring dim lights, deep muted colours and bespoke mahogany furniture that complements the unique bohemian framework of the original building.
Writer: Rooksana Hossenally, Elana Wong
Find out more about Grand Pigalle Hôtel here
Home and Delicious
Reykjavik, Iceland
Owned by Halla Bára Gestsdóttir and Gunnar Sverrison, this trio of boutique apartments is housed in a century old building in central Reykjavik. Designed by Gestsdóttir, the apartments feature a colour scheme of neutrals, shades of blue and muted patterned accents combined with furnishings acquired in markets, including standout fittings like George Nelson 'Bubble Lamps' from Modernica.
Writer: David Paw, Elana Wong
Find out more aboout Home and Delicious here
Home and Delicious
Reykjavik, Iceland
The apartments are also decorated with framed photographs taken by Sverrison for an intimate touch, harking to the blogging origins of their venture. In its simple homeliness, the property radiates the character of the original house.
Writer: David Paw, Elana Wong
Find out more about Home and Delicious here
Coppersmith Hotel
Melbourne, Australia
Formerly South Melbourne’s old Cricket Club, hospitality entrepreneur George Bagios has turned the property into a stylish little hotel. With the help of architecture studio Hassell, a new building was effectively built behind the historic façade, with a third storey and a timber roof deck added behind a decorative parapet.
Writer: David Paw, Elana Wong
Find out more about Coppersmith Hotel here
Coppersmith Hotel
Melbourne, Australia
Inside the building, arched windows and timber echo the original details, while copper and leather in the restaurant add a masculine, contemporary feel. Offering a menu by British chef Daniel Southern, the simple, but quality English and Australian fare hits a homely note for travellers and locals alike.
Writer: David Paw, Elana Wong
Find out more about Coppersmith Hotel here
Tainaron Blue
Kastri, Greece
Husband-and-wife architects Kostas Zouvelos and Kassiani Theodorakakou have converted a 19th century Kastri watchtower into a boutique hotel and retreat. Constructed using local stone bound with lime and river sand, the tower’s façade remains authentic while rooms feature clean neutral colour schemes with custom-made furniture, with a series of timber ladders and stone alcoves that settle into the original structure.
Writer: David Paw, Elana Wong
Find out more about Tainaron Blue here
Tainaron Blue
Kastri, Greece
The hotel also contains a spectacular infinity pool, a family ‘viewing’ room at the top of the tower, and a restaurant by chef George Samoilis, who offers up contemporary regional Maniot dishes emphasising fresh local seafood and well-known olive oil.
Writer: David Paw, Elana Wong
Find out more about Tainaron Blue here
Memmo Alfama
Lisbon, Portugal
Opened by hotelier Rodrigo Machaz, Memmo Alfama is a beautiful design hotel in the heart of Lisbon’s Arab quarter, a charming area of orange trees and terrace bars, steps from the São Jorge Castle. Despite its historical surroundings, the hotel has an uber-contemporary feel due to the minimalist design by local architect Samuel Torres de Carvalho.
Writer: Rupert Eden, Elana Wong
Find out more about Memmo Alfama here
Memmo Alfama
Lisbon, Portugal
The 42 rooms, from which you can choose patio, Bairro or river vista, also feature Egyptian-cotton bed linens while a well-stocked wine bar provides international gourmet snacks. The Memmo Alfama terrace contains a wine bar and pool, while serving up gastronomic Portuguese cuisine.
Writer: Rupert Eden, Elana Wong
Find out more about Memmo Alfama here
Pod 39
New York, USA
In the reinvigorated Murray Hill neighbourhood, the Pod Hotel's second venture, Pod 39, not only follows the popular formula of nurturing a vibrant resident community, but does one better than its predecessor with a destination lobby. The rooms feature bright, fresh, homely designs and furnishings, and contain amenities such as a flat-screen TV and iPod dock.
Writer: Pei-Ru Kei, Elana Wong
Find out more about Pod 39 here
Pod 39
New York, USA
Conceived as a dynamic communal space for guests, who can already interact with fellow travellers via an innovative online chat system, the lobby boasts a bar, oversized fireplace and two ping-pong tables. Throw in chef April Bloomfield's rated taqueria, Salvation Taco, which has been packing in patrons since it opened prior to Pod 39, and that's one stylish lobby.
Writer: Pei-Ru Kei
Find out more about Pod 39 here
La Plage Casadelmar
Corsica, France
Following on from the successful Hotel Casadelmar is La Plage Casadelmar, a subtler, more tranquil property sited just across the water in Porto-Vecchio. Facing a private strip of beach, the hotel offers panoramic views of the bay and beyond. The elegant lodgings, comprising only 15 guest rooms and suites, were designed by Jean-François Bodin, who has used muted tones, peppered with vibrant spots of colour.
Writer: TF Chan
Find out more about La Plage Casadelmar here
La Plage Casadelmar
Corsica, France
Food is simple, casual, market-inspired Mediterranean fare, and diners get access to the heated pool. For the more adventurous, there's a menu of activities like hiking, jet skiing, scuba diving and windsurfing.
Writer: TF Chan
Find out more about La Plage Casadelmar here
The Pottinger
Hong Kong, China
The Pottinger is a new 68-room boutique hotel on Hong Kong’s first pebbled street. Local interiors firm Studio Annetta oversaw the hotel’s design, which elegantly marries colonial influences with oriental details. Cultural tributes are peppered throughout while, nestled on the hotel’s third floor, The Envoy bar has an East meets West feel with oriental wallpaper, offbeat artwork and many of the drinks using tea as a main ingredient. The hotel’s rich culinary offerings, meanwhile, include Gradini (serving up classic Italian fare), Japanese-French fusion spot Holytan Grill, and Venchi, an artisanal gelato and chocolate shop.
Writer: Jessica Kingelfuss, Elana Wong
Find out more about The Pottinger here
Hotel Urso
Madrid, Spain
Located in an early-20th-century building, the 78-room property has maintained its grand neoclassical façade. And despite a contemporary vein running through its interiors, the design, by Spaniard Antonio Obrador, is primarily focused on preserving the building’s history, with restored oak panelling, marble floors and fabric-covered walls.
Writer: Ella Marshall, Elana Wong
Find out more about Hotel Urso here
Hotel Urso
Madrid, Spain
In keeping with the heritage theme, the space has four original early-20th-century stained glass windows and original azulejo tiles adorning the façade and entrance, as well as the restored original building lift. The hotel also features a luxe spa with a 12m-lap pool and oriental steam room, and a serviceable boardroom.
Writer: Ella Marshall, Elana Wong
Find out more about Hotel Urso here
Dream Hotel
Tampere, Finland
Entrepreneur Ville Virkki has added an extra floor to his Dream Hostel, to create a boutique hotel. Located in Tampere, Finland, the industrial building has been transformed by Helsinki architecture collective Studio Puisto, who have designed 20 en-suite double and twin rooms that slot compactly around a kitchen and meeting rooms intended for socialising. A sense of snugness is lent to the neutral design with timber strips, hanging basket seats and potted plants, while soft furnishings in turquoise and green tones provide visual contrast and reference the abundant waterways and pristine forests surrounding the city.
Writer: David Paw
Find out more about Dream Hotel here
Adria Boutique Hotel
London, England
The latest project from Al Rayyan Hospitality is a sister to the Doha-based Arumaila boutique hotel. Its Grade-II listed Victorian townhouse in west London was restored by design consultant Urban Velvet who appointed Jestico + Whiles to work on the architecture and the interiors. The grand staircase and the lounge fireplace have both been preserved, while 1950s-inspired decor elsewhere features bespoke lighting. The 24 rooms are not numbered but rather make British references to 'Croquet' and 'Downing'. The public spaces include a spa, gym and library, and there's a personal butler assigned to every room.
Writer: Lauren Ho
Find out more about Adria here
Villa Extramuros
Arraiolos, Portugal
Portugal's latest boutique hotel, on the outskirts of Arraiolos, breaks the creative mould. The hotel contains a monastic all-white open-plan kitchen, reception and dining area, as well as five bedrooms. Designed by Rolf Heinemann, they feature recessed angular garden terraces edged by sliding glass doors overlooking an olive grove.
Writer: Rupert Eden
Find out more about Villa Extramuros here
Villa Extramuros
Arraiolos, Portugal
Local natural cork swathes walls and ceilings and provides thermal and acoustic insulation. Quirky cubist turrets protrude from the roof garden and maximise the natural light below. You can order breakfast, or even a massage, under ancient olive trees by the infinity pool.
Writer: Rupert Eden
Find out more about Villa Extramuros here
White 1921
Saint-Tropez, France
A hot new monochromatic boutique hotel has opened on the site of the former Maison Blanche. Located in an elegant townhouse on the Place des Lices, the property contains eight rooms and suites, furnished with crisp white bed linen and Metro bathroom tiles, with contrasting details in dark grey, blue and purple.
Writer: Lauren Ho
Find out more about White 1921 here
White 1921
Saint-Tropez, France
The hotel’s bar and lounge, designed by Parisian architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte, boasts a great Mediterranean garden setting: customers can sit at a back-lit glass bar, surrounded by jasmine and pine trees, and sample the many vintage champagnes available by the glass while nibbling on white truffle popcorn.
Writer: Lauren Ho
Find out more about White 1921 here
TownHouse Street Milano Duomo
Milan, Italy
Aimed at eliminating the trappings of your typical hotel, such as reception areas, lobbies and corridors, the TownHouse Street 'permanent hospitality space' concept is conceived as individual rooms that can be accessed directly from the street via an electronic keypad. Unlike the first offering, in east Milan, this one is steps away from the Duomo. The brainchild of Alessandro Rosso, with local architect Simone Micheli, the hotel comprises four single and three double-room studios. Lined with striking wall graphics, these glossy spaces are punctuated by bright bursts of yellow and blue.
Writer: Lauren Ho
Find out more about TownHouse Street Milano Duomo here
The Siam
Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok's newest boutique hotel, The Siam, blends modern and traditional architecture. Designed by Bensley Design Studios, the 39 art deco-style suites and pool villas enjoy a riverside location and feature the Thai owner's extensive collection of art and antiques. The hammam-style bath, library, cinema and traditional Thai tea garden set a new standard of decadence. And The Siam offers the first Muay Thai boxing ring ever to grace a hotel. For an even more authentic Bangkok experience, there’s also the option of staying in a century-old house once belonging to silk-trader Jim Thompson.
Writer: Catherine Shaw
Find out more about The Siam here
Hotel Daniel
Vienna, Austria
Housed in a former office block built in 1962, the Hotel Daniel is the third addition to the Weitzer boutique hotels. Designed by Vienna-based architecture firm Atelier Heiss, it is the first building in Austria to feature a curtain wall façade. An open space, comprising of a lobby, bakery, café and lounge area in one, is filled with vintage furniture, and wood palettes used as coffee tables. The 115 minimalist rooms, decorated in shades of grey and white, offer views across Vienna. Though the hotel is not luxurious, there are little extras like hammocks, and rent-able Vespa scooters and bikes.
Writer: Sara Henrichs
Find out more about Hotel Daniel here
Artist Residence
London, England
The latest from hoteliers Justin Salisbury and Charlotte Newey, Artist Residence has a homely feel to it. A designer’s take on a neighbourhood inn, it is furnished with wares from Europe’s most charming antiquiers. With Belgian drafting tables serving as desks, it also features baths from Catchpole & Rye and art from Nelly Duff.
Writer: Ellen Himelfarb
Find out more about Artist Residence here
Artist Residence
London, England
Walking distance from Sloane Square, the hotel consists of two suites, eight ‘house rooms’ and a restaurant by Michael Bremner. He’s fused a small-plate concept with an affinity for comfort food and come up with a menu that features kimchi chicken wings alongside potato dumplings and beef cheeks.
Writer: Ellie Himelfarb
Find out more about Artist Residence here
Vesper
Noordwijk, Netherlands
A nostalgic seaside town on the Netherlands’ west coast is starting to shape up with the arrival of Vesper, the area’s first boutique property. Located among a string of typical B&B’s on Noordwijk Boulevard, the new property is housed in the former Hotel Clarenwijck, originally built in 1904. Owners and brothers Michiel and Martijn van den Berg tasked Paris-based architect Bart Akkerhuis and interior designers Miriam Irle and Philipp Molter to transform the building into a welcoming space.
Writer: Debbie Pappyn
Find out more about Vesper here
Vesper
Noordwijk, Netherlands
The hotel, comprising 27 bright guest rooms fitted with vintage design furniture, also include an original 1920s stained glass ceiling in the lobby, while the Grand Vesper Suite comes complete with its own terrace, private sauna and steam room with uninterrupted views of the North Sea and beyond.
Writer: Debbie Pappyn
Find out more about Vesper here
Hôtel des Galeries
Brussels, Belgium
Opened by entrepreneur and art collector Nadine Flammarion is this 23-room gem, found in the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, Brussels. Formerly a shopping arcade built by architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaer in 1847, the hotel has been designed by Fleur Delesalle and architect and ceramicist Camille Flammarion, who embraced the building’s history while delivering a vibrant aesthetic.
Writer: Marie le Fort
Find out more about Hôtel des Galeries here
Hôtel des Galeries
Brussels, Belgium
With a bright, contemporary look, pieces by local outfits such as Sylvain Zillenz and Zangra as well as Flammarion’s own ceramics can be found dotted throughout the property. The streetside restaurant, helmed by Julien Burlat, serves casual local dishes.
Writer: Marie le Fort
Find out more about Hôtel des Galeries here
The Emblem Hotel
Prague, Czech Republic
Located a stone's throw from Prague's old town square, in a building that dates from 1908, Emblem is the second offering from the local family hoteliers, Olga Valtrova and her son Richard, who have recruited local architecture firm RAP and Canadian integrated design outfit Dialog to conceive their 59-room luxury lodgings. They have overseen every detail of the project, which includes strong materials such as Canadian marble flooring, textured wallpaper, leather wall coverings and various woods, offset by original artworks and bespoke furnishings by designers Marlieke van Rossum and Vladimir Kagan.
Writer: Joann Plockova
Find out more about The Emblem Hotel here
The Emblem Hotel
Prague, Czech Republic
Public spaces include an upper level spa, and an adjacent rooftop bar offering sprawling views of the city. Below deck, guests can eat at the American-style steakhouse or spend the evening with the city's elite at Prague's first member's club.
Writer: Joann Plockova
Find out more about The Emblem Hotel here
Sublime Comporta
Grandola, Portugal
The small fishing village of Comporta is fast becoming the holiday destination of choice for the capital's elite. Privately owned by the Espirito Santo banking dynasty, the peninsula, which is being carefully developed, will see a host of luxury hotels open over the next few years. First up is Sublime, a 14-room boutique hotel by husband-and-wife team Patrícia and Gonçalo Pessoa, who turned a dream holiday home into a dream hotel, with the help of local architect Alberto Charrua.
Writer: Rupert Eden
Find out more about Sublime Comporta
Sublime Comporta
Grandola, Portugal
Comprising ten suites and four double rooms, the sleek villa features furniture by Gervasoni along with sturdy Moroccan doors. The restaurant serves up a light Mediterranean menu, and there's a bar, small spa with an indoor pool, sauna and steam room, and an elegant outdoor pool set in an organic garden.
Writer: Rupert Eden
Find out more about Sublime Comporta here
Waldorf Astoria
Amsterdam, Netherlands
While Amsterdam has boutique lodgings aplenty, few are truly luxurious – which explains the anticipation surrounding the Waldorf Astoria. The new hotel is earning attention as much for its exclusive location, on the city's smart Herengracht canal, as for the storied buildings that house it. Six patrician residences dating from the 17th and 18th centuries have been combined, resulting in a quirky structural flow, with interiors by GA Design International.
Writer: Lauren Ho
Find out more about Waldorf Astoria here
Waldorf Astoria
Amsterdam, Netherlands
From the grand marble lobby through to the cosy lower-level dining room – with views of the tulip-filled garden – each space is a carefully orchestrated shift of moods and styles, while still honouring the buildings' original rococo detail. And with just 93 rooms, it seems the Waldorf has embraced the boutique hotel culture so loved in the city.
Writer: Lauren Ho
Find out more about Waldorf Astoria here
The Broome
New York, USA
Located in the heart of Soho, The Broome is a charming 14-room hotel owned by four Frenchmen. The owners have paid homage to the building’s former function of artist lofts, and have adorned the hotel with their own private collections. Containing a café, meeting room and outdoor atrium, it is furnished by local firm Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams.
Writer: Pei-Ru Keh, Elana Wong
Find out more about The Broome here
The Broome
New York, USA
With their fresh, homey-contemporary feel punctuated by bright accents, each room is equipped with thoughtful amenities and bathroom essentials, while the café offers a complimentary selection of local yogurts and fresh pastries from nearby bakery Ceci Cela every morning.
Writer: Pei-Ru Kei, Elana Wong
Find out more about The Broome here
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A revamped Edinburgh apartment combines Californian-style modernism with modern craftArcher + Braun have transformed an apartment in a historic house with finely tuned contemporary additions and sympathetic attention to detail
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Formafantasma’s biodiversity-boosting installation in a Perrier Jouët vineyard is cross-pollination at its bestFormafantasma and Perrier Jouët unveil the first project in their ‘Cohabitare’ initiative, ‘not only a work of art but also a contribution to the ecosystem’
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Gingerbread City: architects sculpt London out of the season's favourite treatUntil December 29 in Chelsea, see London brought to life in a seasonal-appropriate medium by leading architects and designers
