However, Bensley doesn’t stop at mere functionality. He believes in using design to create memorable experiences and even educate guests. “With my hotels, I am always seeking interesting aspects of the neighbourhood or the local culture to share with our guests,” he says. This approach not only creates a unique experience but also increases the likelihood of return visits.

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Bensley’s philosophy extends to environmental and social responsibility. At his Shinta Mani property in Cambodia, guests can participate in local community projects and conservation efforts. “If someone learns something new, then she is more likely to remember the hotel and return,” Bensley notes. This approach transforms a hotel stay from a passive experience into an opportunity for personal growth and social impact.

Peter Bundgaard Rützou and Signe Bindslev Henriksen of Space Copenhagen have become renowned for their ability to create serene, sophisticated spaces that embody modern luxury. Their portfolio spans the globe, from the Scandinavian-inspired 11 Howard in New York City to the recently opened Hotel Toranomon Hills in Tokyo, which adapts their design philosophy to the Japanese context.

Space Copenhagen challenges traditional notions of luxury, asserting, “Luxury in the traditional sense is DEAD.” Instead, they prioritise creating tranquil spaces that serve as retreats from the busy world outside.

Their design philosophy, which they call “Slow Aesthetics,” focuses on quality, longevity, and a deep understanding of human needs. “We’re keenly aware that, when we complete a hotel project, life will play out there in the form of various activities,” they explain. This human-first approach informs every aspect of their designs, from the choice of materials to the arrangement of furniture.

Space Copenhagen’s approach is deeply rooted in the Scandinavian design tradition, which they describe as “deeply rooted in interpreting and understanding the lives that we live as human beings.” They pay particular attention to the small-scale elements that make a hotel space feel personal and welcoming. “Materials, lighting and colours play a key factor in setting the tone and mood of the overall space,” they note.

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The duo also emphasises the importance of creating spaces that allow guests to feel at home. They focus on “the small rituals we engage in, the things we do in order to feel at home, organised, safe, cosy or simply uplifted and joyful.” These could include personal objects, ambient lighting, books, or plants—elements that make guests feel at ease and inspired during their stay.

Greg Keffer, partner and studio lead at the Rockwell Group, has crafted some of the most memorable hotel experiences around the globe. The studio's portfolio includes the EDITION Hotels, which redefined boutique luxury, and the vibrant Moxy Times Square in New York City. Their recent project, The Riviera Maya EDITION at Kanai, Mexico, showcases their talent for creating immersive, locally inspired luxury experiences.

Keffer emphasises the importance of storytelling in hotel design. “We begin our design for each project with extensive research on the client, space, context, and programme. And then we build a narrative that allows us to tell the story of that project,” Keffer explains.

This narrative approach ensures that each hotel has a unique identity while maintaining a sense of cohesion throughout the property. “As long as there is a strong narrative underlying our decisions in each hotel space, there will be a sense of balance and harmony in the design,” Keffer notes.

Rockwell Group’s approach to luxury aligns with the changing expectations of modern travellers. “People are looking for a design that feels meaningful, that tells a story, and communicates care and intention,” Keffer says. “Luxury is more about connection and indulging one’s curiosity for life and less about exclusivity and passive leisure.”

The firm also recognises the importance of creating adaptable spaces. Keffer notes, “People want adaptable spaces and transformational qualities that can shift for different needs, different times of the day.” This flexibility allows hotels to cater to a wide range of guest needs and preferences, enhancing the overall experience.

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All three design firms stress the importance of incorporating local culture and sustainable practices into their designs. Space Copenhagen’s work on The Largo in Porto, Portugal, exemplifies this approach. “We wanted to draw on this idea of embedding storytelling into the design, revealing Porto’s history through combining old and new craftsmanship,” they explain.

Rockwell Group takes a similar approach, often working with local artists and craftspeople to create authentic experiences. “Sustainability can come in the form of a restored, renovated property,” Keffer points out, highlighting how adaptive reuse can be both environmentally friendly and culturally significant. This approach not only reduces environmental impact but also helps to preserve and celebrate local heritage.

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Bensley goes a step further, using hotel design as a platform for education and social impact. At his Shinta Mani properties in Cambodia, guests can engage with local communities and conservation efforts, making their stay meaningful beyond mere relaxation. “By participating in these activities, they also know that their visit truly makes a difference,” Bensley explains, underscoring the potential for hotels to be catalysts for positive change.

As guest expectations continue to evolve, so too must hotel design. Bensley advises against following trends, preferring to “start fresh with each and every project.” This approach allows for truly unique and tailored experiences that resonate with the specific context of each hotel.

Space Copenhagen emphasises the growing importance of creating calm, rejuvenating spaces in our fast-paced world. They note, “In a fast-paced world, it has become a luxury to have a tranquil space to retreat and relax.” This focus on wellness and restoration will likely become increasingly important in future hotel designs.

Rockwell Group sees a shift towards more meaningful and flexible spaces. Keffer envisions hotels that can “shift for different needs, different times of the day,” accommodating the diverse needs of modern travellers. He also notes a growing desire for hotels that offer opportunities for both “spontaneous and planned events,” blending convenience with expressiveness.

What’s clear is that great hotel design is no longer just about aesthetics or amenities. It’s about creating immersive, authentic experiences that resonate with guests on a deeper level. As travellers seek more than just a place to sleep, designers are rising to the challenge, crafting spaces that are as much about the journey as they are about the destination.

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This story is part of the Tatler Best series, showcasing the finest in Asia across hotels, restaurants and bars. Tatler Best is sponsored by Tumi and Dusit Thani Bangkok.

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