Presented by Capital One
For an avowed hotel enthusiast, there’s nothing more disappointing than rocking up to a thrilling new destination only to check into a hotel that could be, well, anywhere. But when a hotel gets the design just right, its unique visual tapestry can bring a place to life for travelers in a whole different way. From an urban sanctuary brimming with art to a natural oasis that pays tribute to regional artisanship and a chic city hideaway with cosmopolitan flair, these three Hot List hotels use striking aesthetics as another way guests can immerse themselves in their surroundings.
Click here to see the entire Hot List for 2025.
The Manner — New York City
In the heart of hip Soho, the Manner is a slick 97-room haven with a bold look so arresting that you’re never quite sure which direction to look: the sculptural concrete fireplace in The Apartment, the sexy communal space? The red carpets and lacquer walls in the duplex penthouse? The textural walls in moody cocktail bar Sloane’s? Architect and designer Hannes Peer played with a riotous mix of colors and patterns that might seem incongruous yet somehow come together seamlessly. To match the glamorous interiors (and to compete with the influencers holding shoots around the property’s countless photogenic corners), you’ll want to pack some of your chicest urban looks—but since you’re in the shopping haven of Soho, you can always pick up whatever you need at any number of designer boutiques within a few blocks in any direction.
Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve — Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica
Nothing channels a sense of place quite like contemporary textiles and furniture inspired by a region’s generations-old crafts traditions, and this ultra-luxe new resort in a lush corner of Costa Rica leans into its environs with architecture inspired by the charming old haciendas of Guanacaste. Pieces by local artisans are incporporated at every turn, from Latin American artwork to wood-carved details in the rooms to textiles inspired by the Sabanero culture. Nature is the other muse here, with lines blurred between outdoor and indoor living. You’ll be spending most of your stay immersed in these natural surroundings, from hiking through the verdant terrain to riding the funicular down to the private beach club, so bring plenty of stylish swimwear and some active gear to be ready for every adventure.
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The Emory — London
Nestled between the tony enclaves of Belgravia and Knightsbridge and across from Hyde Park, the Emory is an elegant new addition to London’s posh hotel scene courtesy the same luxury stalwarts behind Claridge’s, the Connaught, and the Berkeley. When guests arrive at the city’s first all-suite hotel—typically in one of the property’s electric BMW i7s—they’re likely to wonder if they’ve found themselves at a high-end art gallery, brimming with works by artists like Damien Hirst. Six high-profile designers—including Pierre Yves Rochon, Alexandra Champalimaud, and Patricia Urquiola—divvied up the 9 floors to create distinct, discreet interiors across the 61 rooms. Everything about the Emory whispers quiet luxury, so your wardrobe should follow suit—bring your finest cashmeres, silks, and wools, and leave the loud labels and bold patterns at home.
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