Art and Architecture: The Most Beautifully Designed Luxury Hotels

8 June 2025

When it comes to luxury travel, it’s not just about the plush beds, ocean views, or Michelin-starred menus. Sometimes, the very design of the hotel itself is the draw. These luxury hotels combine art and architecture so seamlessly that simply walking through their halls feels like stepping into a living masterpiece. Buckle up because I’m about to take you on a little journey through some of the most beautifully designed luxury hotels in the world. Ready? Let’s dive in!

Why Do Art and Architecture Matter in Luxury Hotels?

Before we get into the jaw-dropping examples, let’s pause for a moment and think about this: why are art and architecture so important in luxury hotels? Well, a hotel isn’t just a place where you sleep. It’s an experience. The design of a hotel can shape your mood, spark your imagination, and even change the way you see the world. A beautifully designed hotel doesn’t just look good; it tells a story. It reflects culture, creativity, and often the unique history of the destination. Plus, let’s be honest—doesn’t it just feel amazing to stay in a space that's dripping with artistic flair and architectural genius?

1. Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

Effortlessly futuristic and an icon of Singapore’s skyline.

Picture this: three towering skyscrapers connected by a massive roof garden that looks like a spaceship perched in the sky. That’s Marina Bay Sands for you. Designed by the renowned architect Moshe Safdie, this hotel is the epitome of futuristic elegance. The pièce de résistance? The infinity pool on the SkyPark—it’s easily one of the most Instagrammable spots in the world. Imagine floating in the water with the glittering city stretched out before you. It’s like being on top of the world—literally.

And it doesn’t stop there. Inside, the hotel is equally jaw-dropping, with wide-open spaces, sleek furnishing, and an emphasis on light and flow. Trust me, every inch of Marina Bay Sands feels deliberate and inspired.

2. The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto, Japan

A serene blend of traditional Japanese artistry and modern luxury.

Now, let’s slow things down and head to Kyoto. Nestled along the Kamogawa River, The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto is a slice of Zen paradise. The hotel’s architecture perfectly embodies the Japanese philosophy of “shibumi,” which means understated elegance. Think minimalism, clean lines, and an intimate connection with nature.

Inside, you’ll find art at every turn—from stunning calligraphy installations to handcrafted ceramics by local artisans. Even the gardens are meticulously designed, blending seamlessly with the natural landscape. Staying here feels like stepping into a world where ancient traditions and modern luxury coexist in perfect harmony.

3. La Mamounia, Marrakech, Morocco

A palace that’s straight out of a 1,001 Nights fairytale.

Next up is La Mamounia, and let me tell you, this hotel is the definition of opulence. Located in the heart of Marrakech, it looks and feels like a Moroccan palace. Think carved wooden ceilings, mosaic-tiled walls, and lush courtyards adorned with fragrant orange trees. Every corner of this hotel bursts with intricate details that tell a story of craftsmanship and heritage.

As you wander through its corridors, you might feel like you’ve been transported to another era—one where sultans and queens ruled majestic lands. Oh, and don’t miss the spa! It’s like stepping into an exotic dream with its traditional hammams and ornate decor.

4. Hotel Marqués de Riscal, Elciego, Spain

A bold architectural statement in the heart of wine country.

Let’s head to Spain now, where the Hotel Marqués de Riscal sits amidst the rolling vineyards of Rioja. Designed by none other than Frank Gehry—the genius behind the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao—this hotel is a modern masterpiece that breaks all the rules of traditional architecture.

The building itself is a work of art, with its undulating titanium ribbons that shimmer in the sunlight. Step inside, and you’ll find that the avant-garde aesthetic continues, offering guests a one-of-a-kind sensory experience. Oh, and did I mention it’s also a wine lover’s dream? You can savor world-class vintages in a setting that’s as intoxicating as the wine itself.

5. Amangiri, Utah, USA

Minimalism meets the majesty of the natural world.

If your idea of luxury is reconnecting with nature, Amangiri is the stuff of dreams. Nestled in the rugged landscapes of Utah’s desert, this hotel blends so effortlessly with its surroundings that you might almost miss it at first glance (but trust me, you won’t!).

Its architecture is minimalistic, using natural materials like stone and concrete to mirror the desert’s muted palette. There’s nothing flashy or over-the-top here, but that’s the beauty of it. Every design detail is intentional, letting the dramatic landscape take center stage. It’s like living in a painting, with mesas and canyons as your backdrop. Talk about a retreat for the soul.

6. Burj Al Arab, Dubai, UAE

A shimmering icon of modern luxury and extravagance.

We can’t talk about beautifully designed luxury hotels without mentioning the Burj Al Arab. This is luxury on steroids. Shaped like the sail of a ship, the building itself is an architectural marvel. And don’t even get me started on the interiors—it’s as though someone bottled pure extravagance and splashed it everywhere.

From gold-plated walls to sparkling chandeliers, everything here screams opulence. Oh, and did I mention it’s home to one of the world’s tallest atriums? Even if you’re not staying there, it’s worth a visit just to marvel at the sheer scale and artistry of it all.

7. The Icehotel, Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

Where art, nature, and architecture converge in icy perfection.

Okay, this one’s a bit out there—literally. The Icehotel in Sweden is made entirely of ice and snow, and it’s rebuilt every single year! Yup, you heard that right. Artists come from all over the world to sculpt rooms, furniture, and even chandeliers out of frozen water.

Each suite is unique, so no two stays are ever the same. The artistry is breathtaking, with intricate carvings and ethereal lighting giving the whole place an almost otherworldly feel. Bundle up, because this is one hotel stay you’ll never forget.

8. The Silo, Cape Town, South Africa

Industrial chic meets cutting-edge design.

The Silo is one of those hotels that perfectly balances old and new. Built within a historic grain silo, the design preserves the building’s industrial charm while adding modern, luxurious touches. Its bold geometric windows are a standout feature, sparkling like diamonds in the Cape Town sunlight.

Inside, you’ll find vibrant contemporary art and colorful decor that contrasts beautifully with the building's raw, industrial bones. Plus, the views of Table Mountain and the waterfront from the rooftop pool? Absolutely unbeatable.

The Takeaway: Architecture That Stays With You

If there’s one thing all these hotels have in common, it’s that they’re unforgettable. Whether you’re drawn to sleek modernity, timeless tradition, or something completely out-of-the-box, each of these hotels lets you experience art and architecture in a deeply personal way. They’re not just places to stay; they’re destinations in their own right. So, where are you booking next?