Explore the World's Captivating Design-Focused Stays in 2023
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After a whirlwind few years, the allure of travel has never been stronger. If you've found yourself daydreaming about soaking in the golden sun of Mallorca or discovering the vibrant streets of Sydney, our latest blog post is sure to ignite your wanderlust. Join us as we embark on a global design tour, uncovering five stays meticulously crafted by renowned architects and designers. The best part? You can experience these stunning spaces for yourself. So, dust off your suitcases, print those itineraries, and get ready for a year of unforgettable getaways that promise to inspire your 2023 travels.
No. 1: Villa Copenhagen by Universal Design Studio
Nestled next to Copenhagen's iconic Tivoli Gardens and the Meatpacking District, Villa Copenhagen stands as a century-old landmark Neo-Baroque-style building turned luxury hotel. With interiors designed by London-based Universal Design Studio, this hotel pays homage to the original architecture while celebrating Scandinavian design.
The hotel's 390 guest rooms beautifully blend contemporary elements with the building's historic charm. But there's more to discover. In 2022, Villa Copenhagen unveiled its redesigned Universal Penthouse Suite in collaboration with Danish design experts &Tradition. This double-story loft space boasts a spiral staircase, expansive picture windows offering panoramic views of Copenhagen, and a curated showcase of &Tradition's lighting, furniture, and objects. It's a luxurious retreat that's sure to elevate your Copenhagen experience.
No. 2: Borgo Gallana by Studio Andrew Trotter
Barcelona-based design firm Studio Andrew Trotter brings us the enchanting Borgo Gallana, a trio of boutique hotels nestled in the serene Puglian countryside near Oria. Owned by local Giuseppe De Vanna, this project is a personal endeavor born out of a desire to share the simple joys of Puglia with the world. Each of the three houses, named 'Casa Camino,' 'Casa Luce,' and 'Casa Limone,' offers a unique escape.
These charming houses feature living areas, kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, private gardens, outdoor relaxation spaces, and even masonry baths and showers. Guests are treated to mesmerizing views of native grasslands, olive trees, and a 40-square-meter pool. To infuse the essence of Puglia into these houses, Studio Andrew Trotter employed local materials and traditional building techniques, resulting in a rustic yet refined design that captures the essence of 'the simple life.
No. 3: Ace Hotel Sydney by Flack Studio and Bates Smart
In 2022, Ace Hotels, the renowned Seattle-based hoteliers, ventured into the Southern Hemisphere with their first outpost in Surry Hills, Sydney. Collaborating with Flack Studio for the interiors and Bates Smart for the architecture, this 18-story, 257-room hotel found its home in a 1900s former brick factory. What makes Ace Hotel Sydney truly unique is its homage to the Australian landscape. The layered interior palette featuring ochre, burnt orange, and tanned leather beautifully mirrors the country's desert terrain. Vivid green marble accents evoke the expansive countryside.
The hotel proudly showcases works by local artists, including Tony Albert, Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran, and Nadia Hernández. These artworks adorn the walls throughout the hotel, creating a visual treat for guests. On the 18th floor, the Ace Hotel Sydney offers 'Kiln,' a rooftop restaurant and bar designed by Melbourne-based studio Fiona Lynch Office. With locally sourced materials and custom-made pieces, it's a delightful tribute to Australian craftsmanship and cuisine.
No. 4: Camp Roig 31 by Durietz Design and Development
Nestled at the foot of the Tamarama Mountains on the Spanish island of Mallorca, Camp Roig 31 is a luxurious seven-bedroom holiday villa. Originally a 1910 townhouse, this stunning property has been transformed by Spanish design firm Durietz Design and Development. It beautifully blends Art Deco influences with Mallorcan heritage, creating an ambiance of elegance and comfort.
The heart of this villa is undoubtedly the kitchen, featuring an Italian cream travertine bench and custom-made walnut cabinetry. It also boasts a cozy breakfast corner and an original restored fireplace. This Mallorcan retreat offers more than just beautiful interiors; it includes a yoga room, laundry room, home office, and even a wine cellar. The cellar houses 150 bottles of Camp Roig 31 wine, produced locally on the island at Bodegas Son Puig.
No. 5: Tulum Treehouse by Co-Lab Design Office
Mexico's breathtaking Tulum coast is famous for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush mangrove jungles. Among the paradisiacal landscapes, a design gem seamlessly harmonizes with its surroundings - the Tulum Treehouse by Co-Lab Design Office.
What truly sets the Tulum Treehouse apart is its masterful use of locally sourced Tzalam wood throughout the structure. This wood, with its rich texture and earthy hues, not only enhances the property's aesthetic appeal but also forges a profound and harmonious bond with the surrounding natural world. It's an architectural masterpiece where design and nature coexist in perfect balance.What truly sets the Tulum Treehouse apart is its masterful use of locally sourced Tzalam wood throughout the structure. This wood, with its rich texture and earthy hues, not only enhances the property's aesthetic appeal but also forges a profound and harmonious bond with the surrounding natural world. It's an architectural masterpiece where design and nature coexist in perfect balance.
As the world reopens its doors to travelers, these extraordinary design-focused stays offer a tantalizing glimpse of what awaits. So, pack your bags and prepare for a year filled with architectural marvels, luxurious interiors, and unforgettable experiences. Your 2023 adventure begins here.
xx Paulina