Ultra-modern amenities and revolutionary architecture of these Berlin, Dubai, Maldives, Bali, Macau and Norway hotels offer cutting-edge accommodation
If iconic hotels such as Caesars Palace in Las Vegas and Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands are any indication, the accommodation in which you stay is integral to the travel experience.
No longer just a place for respite, hotels are transforming into distinguished landmarks and tourist hubs in their own right, and visionary developers are taking it to the next level.
For those seeking a special sojourn, look no further than the latest cutting-edge accommodation that jumps light years ahead to offer a glimpse of a future metropolis.
Boasting architectural feats and slick innovations, these revolutionary hotels are a sight to behold and are set to become architectural icons.
Svart, Norway
Forget special requests for ocean-facing views.
Come 2021, travellers in Norway’s northern region will be able to enjoy spectacular 360-degree panoramas of artic nature and frosty glaciers – as well as the magnificent Northern Lights.
Circular in shape and supported by wooden poles that lift the novel structure above the pristine waters of the Svartisen glacier, just above the Arctic Circle, Svart boasts groundbreaking design and sustainability.
As the world’s first energy positive hotel, Svart will harvest solar energy to construct the building and sustain its operations, consuming 85 per cent less energy than other modern hotels.
Blurring the boundaries between the property and its surroundings, expansive glass windows that enclose the ring-shaped hotel allow for unobstructed views of resplendent auroras on winter nights and the midnight sun during summer.
As for activities, Svart will offer glacier hikes, Northern Lights expeditions, yoga and fishing.
Morpheus, Macau
Having just swung open its doors in June, Morpheus gives Macau’s City of Dreams a brilliant new sheen.
Housing more than 770 rooms and sky villas, the US$1.1 billion contemporary masterpiece is the world’s first free-form exoskeleton high-rise, with its smooth, curved lines inspired by China’s traditional jade carving.
Seemingly defying the need for supporting walls and pillars, Morpheus’ uninterrupted sweeping spaces are made compelling by the sculptural geometric forms.
Journeying through the hotel feels like walking through a kaleidoscope of rhombus patterns, made even more impressive by the panoramas of Macau through the glass.
Here, time feels infinite, with art galleries, sky pools and award-winning restaurants collectively providing a transcendent experience that guests will never want to check out from.
Alila Villas Uluwatu, Bali
Sustainability is the future and Alila Villas Uluwatu on the island of Bali, in Indonesia, fully understands this.
Engineered to seamlessly blend in with its natural surroundings, the EarthCheck Gold-certified villas are designed based on an environmentally sustainable framework.
The forward-thinking architecture uses special lava rock roofs and bamboo ceilings to allow the sea breeze to flow through the open-plan complex, keeping energy consumption to a minimum, while water conservation efforts reduce wastage.
Perched atop limestone cliffs with dramatic vistas of the Indian Ocean, one of the resort’s most impressive highlights is the sunset cabana which hangs suspended over the cliff’s edge.
Its stunning backdrop makes it a popular choice for intimate weddings and special occasions, if not for a spot of afternoon tea or an evening cocktail.
The Muraka at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Maldives
This November, ocean-enthusiasts will get a taste of living in Atlantis when they check into The Muraka, a two-storey villa featuring underwater suites submerged five metres (16 feet) beneath the waves.
Touted as “a triumph of modern design and technology”, The Muraka provides a sea experience like no other and is said to be the world’s first undersea residence.
A king-size bedroom, bathroom and lounge are all housed within the curved acrylic dome, through which you will come face-to-face with the Indian Ocean’s beautiful marine life and fall asleep to these mesmerising sights.
When you want a fresh sea breeze, head up the spiral staircase to the upper deck where you will find another bedroom, a pool, gym, bar and butler’s quarters.
ME by Meliá Dubai
Slated to open in the United Arab Emirates in the fourth quarter of 2019, the luxury hotel ME by Meliá Dubai will form part of The Opus, the newest Dubai architectural marvel to decorate its skyline.
Conceived by the late architect Zaha Hadid, who was renowned for her neo-futuristic designs, The Opus’ abstract shape emulates that of a cube, featuring a free-form void at the building’s core that divides it into two towers, but remains united by a steel and glass bridge.
Inside, Hadid’s signature style continues on full display, with the striking furnishings either designed or hand-picked by the architect herself.
Featuring swanky suites, private roof terraces and Michelin-starred restaurants across 19 floors, ME by Meliá Dubai will offer state-of-the-art amenities, including an interactive media centre fitted in each room to create a digitally integrated environment.
Nhow Berlin, Germany
Who says the space age has to be all silver and sleek?
The modern Nhow Berlin hotel oozes colour and style, although its warehouselike structure and brownstone facade might disguise it well.
Still, the protruding cantilever with a mirrored aluminium underside that sits atop the building hints at the music and lifestyle hotel’s zany character.
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With 304 rooms, from junior suites to luxury penthouses – all with a psychedelic look – Nhow Berlin offers a stimulating environment for creative cats to get inspired.
Whether you are a musician, fashion aficionado or a lover of the modernistic scene, the German hotel is decorated with designer furnishings and fully equipped with every trendy artist’s needs (including a Nespresso machine and ample USB ports).
When you have had a stroke of musical genius, have room service send up a guitar or keyboard for you to practise on.
Then, take a break on the terrace offering impressive views over the River Spree and the city’s charming Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg district.
Note – This story was originally published on SCMP and has been republished on this website with permission.
