While travelling might not be in the cards for us just yet, day dreaming of far flung locales is. In an attempt to satiate our hunger for travel, we’ve rounded-up the hotels that design lovers dream of… just to inspire some of your reveries.
As we cure our wanderlust withdrawal with dreams of places far and wide, it helps to know where to set your sights on. From striking interiors, to secluded paradises against serene natural backdrops, these are the destinations to wistfully yearn for.
45 Park Lane
If you like lighting, bespoke detailing, and unbeatable views.
The brainchild of French architect and designer Thierry Despont, 45 Park Lane hotel follows a design concept that takes things back to the 1960s residence, creating a vibe that’s all about intimacy, discretion, and complete privacy. Each of the 45 spacious rooms and suites come with unparalleled views of the royal Hyde Park, while rooms on higher floors overlook the entirety of London.
Fans of lighting design will be happy to see that half of the interior is focused around how light is manipulated, as Thierry filters and plays with both natural and artificial light in creative ways. On the outside, fins and louvres create blinds that distinguish the restaurant space from the bar, while a metallic waterfall effect on the side of the building is reminiscent of water ripples, nodding to the concept of capturing movement and light. Add to that custom-made design details — even the door handles are bespoke — and you get a truly special space where you can quietly appreciate the city’s stunning views.
45 Park Lane Hotel, 45 Park Lane, Mayfair, London; +44 20 7493 4545
Le Meurice
If you live for dreamy spaces, elegant interiors, and stunning craftsmanship.
Head over to Le Meurice’s Belle Etoile Penthouse Suite with Terrace, and you’ll be greeted by somewhat of a masterpiece, as far as interiors are concerned. With every detail meticulously chosen by design studio Lally & Berger, the penthouse is a graceful harmony between craftsmanship and innovation — perfectly complementing its surrounding Paris-city views.
There are up to three connecting bedrooms, all of which come complete with large windows that light the space up with an easy breezy feel. The furniture set-up is flexible, meaning you can experience a home away from home, amidst the Versailles-inspired decor.
If there’s something that stands out the most, it’s is the expansive outdoor space, which houses a beautiful private garden that feels almost otherworldly — taking you to a haven of lush green, inspired by the Tuileries Garden below.
Le Meurice, 228 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris; +33 1 44 58 10 55
Shishi-Iwa House
If you yearn for nature, minimalism, and solitude.
Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, Shishi-Iwa House is somewhat of a hidden gem. With only ten rooms, the boutique resort is nestled within the serene woods of Karuizawa in Japan — rising as a smooth, curvilinear form with a roof that flows with the movement of the forest. Driven by the goal of preserving the surrounding trees, Ban built the retreat by using prefabricated plywood panels.
True design enthusiasts may revel in taking note of Ban’s use of cardboard, and how bedrooms and public spaces have been fitted out with timber and paper tube elements for a homogenous ambiance overall.
Shishi-Iwa House, 2147-646, Nagakura, Karuizawa, Kitasaku District, Nagano; +81 80 7691 6020
Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok
If you appreciate tradition, extravagance, and heritage.
A favourite destination for Hong Kong, Bangkok is the quick getaway that is on the top of our list for when travel restrictions are lifted. The Mandarin Oriental Bangkok makes for a great option to appreciate the spirit of Bangkok city. Inspired by the Chao Phraya River, the hotel’s River Wing was only just recently redesigned by renowned designer Jeffrey Wilkes back in 2019.
The resulting interiors are all about Royal Barge sculptures in hammered brass and dark wood flooring that lend a nice tropical touch. The fresh and light design styles are nicely complemented by whitewashed wooden panelling, textured linen drapes, and rich fabrics courtesy of Jim Thompson.
What’s especially worthy of mention is how the rooms draw inspiration from the hotel’s historic riverside location, with teakwood floors, carefully crafted furniture and beautiful Thai silks that truly enhance the resort-style ambience.
Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, 48 Oriental Avenue, 10500 Bangkok; +66 (0) 2 659 9000
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