Inspiration can come from all kinds of unlikely places. When I’m designing a home, I might draw influence from non-residential properties like art galleries, restaurants and hotels. I find the aspirational feeling you get when you walk into a really unique space is something I want to recreate in the homes I design. My clients crave that wow-factor and where better to find it than in some of the world’s coolest hotels?

So today I thought I’d indulge in a little Friday escapism, and share a few of my personal favourite design hotels from around the world. Enjoy!

Mr and Mrs Smith

It’s hard to pinpoint just one Mr and Mrs Smith hotel – the company handpicks the best boutique spots from around the world, so they know a thing or two about style and ambience.

Locally, the Artist Residence Hotel in Brighton is seriously cool. It features reclaimed industrial interiors, two cosy restaurants and a bar inspired by a Caribbean rum shack.

A little further afield there is the charming, and more traditional, Hôtel Crillon le Brave in Avignon, France. A tranquil and sophisticated spot, this hotel is set in beautiful countryside and is all about relaxation and indulgence.

Aman Resorts

With exceptional destinations and beautiful hotels, Aman specialise in an abundance of luxury. Sadly I’ve not yet been to one of their hotels, but a few of their properties have caught my eye, like the breathtaking Amanruya in Turkey…

…And the wildly opulent Aman Venice in Italy. 

Straf Hotel, Milan

I couldn’t round up this post without a mention of the Straf Hotel in Milan. Designed by Italian architect and fashion designer Vincenzo de Cotiis, the Straf is a work of art. Its aesthetic is hard and minimalist but it still manages to give off an air of intimacy and warmth. The interior features huge swathes of concrete which are offset by industrial design elements and contemporary artworks.