Hong Kong’s hot and heavy summer is officially upon us, which can mean only one thing – it’s time to pack those suitcases and eschew the city’s sauna-like situation for somewhere a little more temperate. Whether your desired destination is just across the South China Sea or considerably further flung, make sure you lay your hat in one of these wanderlust-worthy design hotels, perfect for the intrepid aesthetic explorer.
See more: 5 design spots to visit in Singapore
Seemingly suspended above the luscious valley below, andBeyond Phinda Rock Lodge boasts just six exquisite suites, all of which have undergone a recent renovation. The result is refined rustic-chic – with the emphasis firmly on the chic – and understated interiors that allow the spectacular views across South Africa’s stunning KwaZulu-Natal province to take centre stage. What’s more, the private terrace features an inviting plunge pool, perhaps the best spot from which to soak up those vistas.
The Big Apple has no shortage of hotels, but there is only one Public. Opened amid much fanfare in June, it is the first of a new series of hotels from hospitality veteran Ian Schrager (the man responsible for New York’s legendary Studio 54 and the boutique hotel). Occupying the ground floors of a Herzog & Meuron-designed Lower East Side development, Public delivers on aesthetics, comfort and location, while – perhaps most surprisingly given the names behind it – placing luxury accommodation within a decidedly affordable price bracket.
Nestled within lush private gardens on the banks of the Siem Reap River, Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor recently reopened after extensive refurbishment. Arranged around an inviting central swimming pool, the 59 rooms boast traditional Khmer-style architecture that mingles surprisingly well with decidedly modern design elements and specially commissioned artworks curated by Asia art aficionado Roger Nelson. It’s an ideal base from which to connect with both ancient and contemporary Cambodia.
Located in the Brutalist Stockholm neighbourhood of Brunkebergstorg, Hobo Hotel breathes life into its concrete and steel locale with vast open spaces that double as creative cocoons for both the local and visiting communities. Sip Hobo’s own craft beer in the upstairs bar, replete with a revolving art display exhibiting Swedish artists and bi-weekly live music and DJ nights, or dine downstairs in the restaurant. The 201 rooms are typically Scandi-chic with whimsical touches, a focus on sustainability, and furniture that has been specially designed by German firm Studio Aisslinger.
A perennially popular holiday hotspot, Alila Ubud elevates its offerings this summer with six new Terrace Tree Villas – five one-bedroom units and one two-bedroom stunner complete with a private pool. Perched on an evocative forested hillside and designed by local Balinese architectural firm NXST, the villas enjoy secluded private terraces that take full advantage of the Indonesian island’s enchanting natural landscape, while delivering all the luxury and hospitality associated with the Alila brand.
The post 5 of the best design-minded spots to stay this summer appeared first on Home Journal.
