This collection of properties – in over 170 destinations worldwide – is a harmonious representation of the Design Hotels ethos: creative passion, neighborhood connections, holistic design and responsible hospitality.
BERLIN – Never one to jump on a bandwagon and chase the latest craze in design and travel, Design Hotels has been honing its craft for over twenty years. With eight new members and a total of 280 member hotels around the world, it’s a portfolio of seasoned storytellers and clever curators of hospitality. From inspired abodes and the creative minds behind them (known as the Originals), to the strong neighborhood foundations driving these forces, each and every member has its own unique point of view. Taken together, this collection of properties – in over 170 destinations worldwide – is a harmonious representation of the Design Hotels ethos: creative passion, neighborhood connections, holistic design and responsible hospitality.
Set off on a global gallivant by exploring these eight new members.
The Serras, Barcelona, Spain
Behind a restored 19th century facade on Barcelona’s celebrated Passeig de Colom, history, art and top tech gadgets marry at The Serras. Set to open in January 2015, the 29-room hotel was once home to Pablo Picasso’s first studio where he painted Ciencia y Caridad in 1897. A top Catalan chef, a stylish rooftop terrace and oversized rooms with tiling that echoes classic Barcelones style, round out an impeccable Mediterranean getaway. Though a bustling world lies just outside its front door, inside a soothing color palette paints a portrait of calm.
Sir Albert Hotel, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
A one-time diamond factory, Sir Albert’s industrial past has been buffed by warm, welcoming interiors that allude to a sophisticated world traveler. Set in the lively De Pijp district, the Quartier Latin of Amsterdam – a melting pot of diverse cuisines, hopping bars and a strong cafe culture – this aristocratic lair is more akin to a stay in a private city residence than a hotel. A well-stocked library and pleasant fireplace greet guests of the 90-room hotel, while the IZAKAYA Asian Kitchen & Bar with a private terrace offers sweeping views of the city. Italian furniture manufacturers like Maxalto, Moroso and Ceccotti sit alongside limited edition works by standout Dutch designers such as Piet Hein Eek and Joy van Erven.
Vertigo Hotel, Dijon, France
Set in a Haussmann-style building on one of Dijon’s most beautiful squares, Vertigo Hotel’s interiors are a contemporary contrast to the exterior. Set to open in January 2015, the 42-room hotel was built in the popular Parisian style of the late 1800s. The black-and-white color scheme is complemented by Ligne Roset design pieces, suspended beds, and photograph-bedecked ceilings. With a focus on service, the hotel welcomes guests as soon as they enter the driveway. Meanwhile, a retro onyx bar offers vintage burgundy wines, Champagnes, and fine cocktails. Lastly, an indoor swimming pool, hammam, and sauna ensure the ultimate holiday repose.
nest hotel, Yeongjongdo Island, Incheon, South Korea
The first Design Hotels member in South Korea, nest hotel is located on Yeongjongdo, an island off the west coast of Incheon. Opened in September 2014, not only is the 370-room structure a cubist-meets-modernist masterpiece, but its clever design affords guests maximum views of pine trees, reed fields, and the calming Yellow Sea. Built as the ultimate retreat, the hotel is overflowing with services such as a library cafe, mini-theater, spa, world-class dining, glamping (glamorous camping) facilities for nature lovers, biking courses through the reed fields, and adventure-minded watersports.
Washington School House, Park City, Utah, United States
Built in 1888 as one of three original schools in Park City, Utah, the iconic Washington School House has lived many different lives. For its latest incarnation, full attention has been paid to the building’s historical authenticity, including its hand-quarried limestone facade. Twelve suites and rooms have been crafted into the original structure, each with five-meter-high ceilings, giant double-hung windows, and delightful dormer niches. The intimate hotel is curated with a collection of Swedish and French antiques, vintage modern art, exquisite fabrics, and striking chandeliers.
Adelphi Hotel, Melbourne, Australia
Originally built in 1938 as a warehouse for the clothing trade, Adelphi Hotel’s simple and elegant design received its first makeover in 1989 by architecture firm Denton Corker Marshall. It was first opened in 1993 as a minimalist 34-room boutique hotel – the first of its kind in Australia – complete with private rooftop club, restaurant, and a suspended pool. Adelphi Hotel’s latest facelift, in 2014, retains the building’s signature warehouse style with metal-framed windows and a concrete facade. As the world’s first “dessert hotel”, design guru Fady Hachem infused the interiors with rich, chocolate-toned furnishings, carpets patterned like cakes, licorice allsorts stools, and the smell of baking in the air.
Nira Montana, La Thuile, Italy
Opening December 2014 and built using new construction techniques, Nira Montana’s modern facade stands out next to its ancient neighbors in the Italian ski resort of La Thuile, part of the picturesque Aosta Valley. Set against the majestic grandeur of Mont Blanc, Original MPS Puri’s second Alpine property brings the same magic to the mountains as his first, the Nira Alpina. The exterior of the 70-room hotel uses local construction materials, including wood and stone, while its rich wood interiors are presented with a twist. The public spaces recall a comfy home with big sofas and a cozy fireplace. High-end Italian furniture, woodsy wallpaper, and the top-level spa redefine Alpine tradition.
H15 Boutique Hotel, Warsaw, Poland
Housed in a former 19th century private residence, H15 Boutique Hotel is located on one of the oldest streets in central Warsaw. Once the site of secret meetings for Polish independence prior to WWI, the hotel has also been home to a Soviet embassy and German Wehrmacht headquarters, yet stands firmly as a prized possession of the People’s Republic of Poland. Following a five year restoration the 46-room property opened in 2012. Architect and interior designer Mariola Tomczak used calm color tones, natural oak floors, and glass walls to brilliantly open up the hotel’s interior spaces.
Photo caption: Washington School House, Park City, Utah, United States.
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.
She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
