While pristine, constructed-last-week hotels are all well and good, there's something to be said about a property with history. Explore four beautiful hotels that combine heritage with a modern touch.
The Robey, Chicago
This hotel is housed in what was formerly known as Northwest Tower, a 203ft Art Deco building that was originally designed as an office complex by Chicago-based firm Perkins, Chatten & Hammond in 1929. The only skyscraper for miles in Chicago's Wicker Park neighborhood, the 89-room hotel was transformed by Belgian firms Nicolas Schuybroek Architects and Marc Merckx Interiors. The rooms, which are inspired by old-school detective novels, capture Chicago's spirit as a bustling city while preserving the building's past.
The Old Clare Hotel, Sydney
Located in the happening district of Chippendale, which is home to art galleries, design studios, and restaurants galore, The Old Clare Hotel is 62 rooms spread over two iconic heritage buildings—the Country Clare Hotel and the Carlton United Brewery Administration Building. The buildings were revamped by Australian firm Tonkin Zulaikha Greer Architects in 2015.
Amanyangyun, Shanghai
Most of us bring back artwork or design pieces as souvenirs from memorable trips; Chinese billionaire Ma Dadong brought back 50 disassembled Ming and Qing Dynasty houses and 10,000 ancient camphor trees that would otherwise have been destroyed to make way for a new dam in Jiangxi Province. With the help of Australian architect Kerry Hill, the houses were transformed the houses 13 villas, 24 courtyard houses, and a beautiful pavilion that make up the Amanyangyun, which is part of Aman Hotel and Resorts' luxurious portfolio of properties.
Six Senses Maxwell
Opened by eco-friendly, wellness-focused hospitality group Six Senses last year, this hotel is located in a 1929 Art Deco building in Tanjong Pagar, a historic district in Singapore's CBD that's filled with shophouses and trendy cafes. The property, which was designed by French architect Jacques Garcia, is filled with framed handwritten documents and other relics from the neighborhood's past.
See more: Queen of Puglia: Great Food, Shopping and Culture in Italy’s Bari