15 Hotels Every Design Lover Must Experience
Over the past few months I’ve been reading articles, viewing posts in my feeds, and collecting design forward hotels to add to my must-see list. While travelers put amenities and location at the forefront of the hotels they choose, design plays a big part in my decision making process. It’s not always about being the most Instagrammable places, although that is quite fun, but it’s about staying in a place that has a vibe and sets the tone. Somewhere that I want to be, rather than just a place to sleep. A place that sets the entire tone for the trip and is just cool AF.
Why Design Matters
Like I said, in the world of travel, a hotel isn’t really just a place to rest after a day of exploring. A hotel is part of the whole experience and design plays a crucial role in shaping that experience. Design-forward hotels embrace thoughtful aesthetics that speak to the culture, history, and spirit of its surroundings while creating an environment that is functional, comfortable, and inspiring. Whether through architecture, interior decor, or curated art collections, these hotels offer guests more than just luxury - they offer connection. For design lovers, like me, staying at a beautifully crafted hotel becomes part of the adventure all in itself.
El Fenn, Marrakech
El Fenn is a masterclass in Moroccan design, with its vibrant colors, intricate tilework, and lush courtyards. The blend of traditional with a modern aesthetic creates an atmosphere like an art gallery and a serene oasis at the same time. Design lovers will appreciate the hotel’s attention to detail, from hand woven rugs to jewel-toned walls, not to mention its curated selection of contemporary Moroccan art.
Why Stay Here:
El Fenn combines heritage and modernity in a visually arresting and endlessly inspiring way. Every corner is Instagram-worthy, making it the perfect retreat for lovers of bold, eclectic design.
Vitorrja, Venice, California
Vitorrja is a California coastal retreat celebrating the bohemian spirit of Venice Beach. This laid-back luxury hotel mixes vintage and contemporary elements with a big emphasis on comfort and style.
Why Stay Here:
Design enthusiasts will love the eclectic, effortlessly cool vibe. Vitorrja’s mix of mid-century modern and bohemian elements make it a stylish, relaxed haven by the beach.
Janu, Tokyo
Janu Tokyo is the sibling brand to Aman, known for its sleek, minimalist approach to luxury. The hotel’s design fuses Japanese minimalism with global influences which results in a harmonious, modern space that feels both cutting-edge and serene.
Why Stay Here:
Design lovers will be drawn to Janu’s precision and elegance. The hotel’s ability to create a sense of calm in a bustling city, like Tokyo, is a testament to the power of thoughtful, restrained design.
Sun Ranch, Australia
Located in the Australian outback, Sun Ranch is an eco-luxe retreat that embraces sustainability and organic design. The minimalist architecture combined with raw materials like timber and stone, blends seamlessly into the beautiful surrounding landscape.
Why Stay Here:
Sun Ranch is perfect for design enthusiasts who value sustainability and natural beauty. The eco-conscious design demonstrates how luxury and environmental responsibility have the ability to coexist - and well.
Hotel Corazon, Mallorca
Hotel Corazon is a boutique hotel on the island of Mallorca that celebrates Mediterranean simplicity with a bohemian twist. The design incorporates natural materials like terracotta and wood, with handcrafted details that reflect the island’s artisan traditions.
Why Stay Here:
Design lovers will appreciate the hotel’s organic, hand-crafted aesthetic. It’s a soulful space where every detail is curated with care, offering a unique blend of rustic charm and modern comfort.
Aristide Hotel, Syros
Located on the Greek island of Syros, Aristide is a marriage of neoclassical architecture and contemporary design. The interiors are a celebration of Greek craftsmanship featuring marble floors, handmade furniture, and bespoke lighting.
Why Stay Here:
Design lovers will appreciate how Aristide blends historical charm with sleek, modern touches. The commitment to sustainability also adds to its appeal, offering an ethical approach to luxury.
La Fantaisie, Paris
La Fantaisie is considered a botanical wonder in the heart of Paris. The design draws inspiration from nature, with lush greenery, floral motifs, and natural materials woven throughout its interiors. La Fantaisie is a playful, vibrant take on Parisian design.
Why Stay Here:
Design lovers will be enchanted by La Fantaisie’s whimsical, nature-inspired spaces. The hotel feels like a living work of art, making it a perfect spot for those who appreciate vibrant and imaginative design.
Grand Hotel Belvedere, Switzerland
Perched high in the Swiss Alps, the Grand Hotel Belvedere offers a seamless blend of classic alpine design with modern luxury. Wooden beams, stone fireplaces, and extra cozy furnishings are complemented by state-of-the-art amenities and panoramic views.
Why Stay Here:
For those who love mountain retreats with a bit of a luxurious twist, the Grand Hotel Belvedere is an architectural gem. Its design captures the essence of alpine tradition with a contemporary take on comfort.
The Hotel Maria, Helsinki
The Hotel Maria is a design-forward gem in the Finnish capital, with interiors that reflect the country’s heritage of craftsmanship. The design is a blend of Nordic minimalism and opulent touches, creating a balance between simplicity and grandeur.
Why Stay Here:
Design lovers will appreciate the hotel’s careful attention to detail between the bespoke furniture, luxurious textiles, and serene color palette. It’s a refined take on Scandinavian elegance.
Hotel Café Royal, London
Hotel Café Royal is a historic London landmark that seamlessly blends classic British design with modern luxury. The hotel’s grand interiors feature marble, gold accents, and Art Deco influences alongside cutting-edge contemporary design.
Why Stay Here:
For those who appreciate grandeur and history, Hotel Café Royal offers a timeless elegant, setting. Its a blend of historic and modern design makes it a must-visit for lovers of classic luxury.
Ett Hem, Stockholm
This Swedish boutique hotel feels like a home away from home, with a sophisticated take on Scandinavian minimalism. Ett Hem is a former residence, and its design emphasizes warm, tactile materials like wood, wool, and leather, creating spaces that are both elegant and inviting.
Why Stay Here:
For design aficionados, Ett Hem is the epitome of understated luxury. The hotel’s ability to merge coziness with clean lines and a simple elegance makes it a dream for those who appreciate Scandinavian aesthetics.
Son Vell, Menorca
Set in a restored farmhouse on the tranquil island of Menorca, Son Vell is a serene retreat that showcases Mediterranean design at its finest. The hotel’s interior blends rustic charm with contemporary touches, emphasizing natural materials like stone and wood.
Why Stay Here:
Design enthusiasts will love the simplicity and serenity of Son Vell’s aesthetic. The focus on natural textures and the seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces make this hotel a peaceful haven for those who appreciate organic, understated design.
SHA Mexico, Costa Mujeres
SHA Mexico is a wellness-focused resort that combines modern, holistic design with a luxurious beachside setting. The hotel is designed to promote relaxation through clean lines, neutral tones, and an emphasis on natural materials.
Why Stay Here:
For lovers of minimalist design with a focus on well-being, SHA Mexico is an ideal destination. The hotel’s serene aesthetic complements its wellness philosophy creating a peaceful escape for design-conscious travelers.
Tokyo Edition, Ginza
This Edition hotel is located in Tokyo’s fashionable Ginza district and blends modern Japanese design with the sleek, cosmopolitan aesthetic the brand is known for. The interiors feature clean lines, warm woods, and soft lighting that all come together to create a luxurious yet understated atmosphere.
Why Stay Here:
For fans of urban sophistication and minimalist design, the Toyko Edition, Ginza offers a masterclass in subtle, refined luxury. It’s a space that celebrates calm amidst the chaos of the city.
Le Grand Mazarin, Paris
Le Grand Mazarin captures the essence of Parisian chic with whimsical yet refined interiors. The design captures classical French elements like gilded mirrors and ornate moldings with bold patterns (like the stripe pool) and modern furnishings, resulting in a playful yet sophisticated space.
Why Stay Here:
For those who love the elegance and eccentricity of Parisian design, Le Grand Mazarin offers an ideal blend of tradition and modernity. It’s a space where creativity thrives, making it a must-visit for the design-loving traveler.
