Sea Containers Hotel
20 Upper Ground, Southbank, London | +44 (0) 808 234 9523
A newer addition to Preferred Hotels has taken up residence in the iconic Sea Containers building right on the Thames. The spaces are modern, and also tasteful to the over-the-top ’70s, with plenty of shiny metallics and velvet touches. From the ship hull of a reception desk (which is also reminiscent of a monumental Richard Serra sculpture) to the purple crushed velvet-covered cinema, you get a good idea of how much fun they had creating the space. The restaurant, helmed by food pioneer Seamus Mullen of Tertulia. The Rumpus Room on the 12th floor, which serves drinks care of mixologist Mr. Lyan, offers 360-degree views of London.
Fellah
Km 13, Route de l’Ourika, Tassoultante, Canal Zarraba, Marrakech | +212.525.065.000
A luxury hotel, artist’s residence, and cultural center, this retreat has so many delights you’ll never want to leave. It’s impeccably decorated—vintage pieces, furniture designed by local artisans—but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. You’ll likely run into one of the visiting artists, who stay for months at a time, researching and developing their next projects, or you can find your way through the Moroccan landscapes to the spectacular art (and DVD) library and UNESCO-recognized cultural center. There’s also an organic cafe, yoga classes, a great spa, an on-site concept store, and a pool. It’s guilt-free tourism too, as the hotel’s founders go out of their way to give back to the community, running practical courses for locals and hiring many. Bring the kids, too: there is plenty of art and music activities just for them.
21 C Museum Hotel, Bentonville
200 N.E. St., Bentonville, AR | 479.286.6500
Until now, Bentonville wasn’t exactly on our hotlist, but this hotel-cum-museum makes a pretty strong case for the state. Designed inside and out by architect Deborah Burke, the contemporary, light-filled space offers a museum, which is open to the museum 24 hours a day. You’ll find many contemporary artists along with the permanent collection; Anne Peabody’s paintings decorate the bathroom mirrors, a man-made moon sculpture in the garden, and there are paper-like sheets permanently strewn through the lobby. Beyond the impressive interiors, the Hive restaurant serves delicious Southern soul food.
