Cover K5 Tokyo is one of Design Hotels' listed properties in Asia (Photo: courtesy of Design Hotels)
K5 Tokyo is one of Design Hotels' listed properties in Asia (Photo: courtesy of Design Hotels)
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Tired of the cut-and-copy hotel model that seems ubiquitous? Design Hotels’ portfolio brings you properties in Japan, Indonesia and Singapore that are perfect for refined travellers
Design Hotels is a portfolio of 300 independent, design-driven hotels around the world. According to its managing director, Stijn Oyen, its mission is to “push the boundaries of travel, hospitality and design to keep our hotels at the forefront of culture and, in turn, attracting purpose-led guests that appreciate experimental hospitality”.
And as more travellers move away from the cut-and-copy hotel model in favour of accommodation that inspires imagination and creates a sense of place, the Design Hotels group has never been more relevant or in demand.
“There’s a new wave of mindful travellers, who are prioritising community-driven and purpose-led experiences. They’re seeking meaningful interactions, value immersion in local culture and transformative experiences rooted in sustainability,” says Oyen.
We round up five Asia properties in the Design Hotels’ portfolio—from a 1920s bank-turned-boutique hotel in Tokyo, to an earthy escape on a 250-metre stretch of private beach in Lombok, Indonesia.
K5 Tokyo, Japan
With just 20 guest rooms, a booking at K5 in Tokyo is a coveted one. Housed in a former 1920s bank, Stockholm-based architects Claesson Koivisto Rune made the most of the building's original charm: Dramatic, draping textiles hang from tall ceilings, and curious enclaves are now intimate nooks.
K5 TokyoThe interior design has a strong mid-century modern influence, with warm tonal woods and bold, sculptural decor featuring furniture custom-built by local craftsmen. Every corner of K5 encourages enjoying the simple pleasures of all things analogue—from the record player and vinyl collection found in every suite to the broody Ao, K5’s lair-like bar soaked in red decor and lined floor-to-ceiling with the hotel’s private book collection.
Genji Kyoto, Japan
This charming 19-room boutique hotel in Kyoto is inspired by the Japanese literary masterpiece, The Tale of Genji. Tributes to the 1000-year-old tale can be found in the Ukifune Zen garden in the lobby courtyard, the classical painting and ceramic sculpture on its verandah, and paintings in each room by young Kyoto artists, which feature motifs from the novel.
The hotel’s design is in the style of teioku ichinyo, where the garden and architecture become one—serene green spaces are found throughout the property, including a rooftop garden and bar with panoramic views.
21 Carpenter, Singapore
Designed by Woha, the newly opened 21 Carpenter in Singapore features a modern, brutalist extension to the historic remittance house, Chye Hua Seng Wee Kee, which straddles Chinatown and lively Clarke Quay.
The guest rooms feature restored details from the original building, including Chengal flooring, the building’s Shanghai plaster façade and ribbed glass. Throughout the hotel, minimalistic spaces and large windows form bright, inviting spaces. Calligraphy-style artworks by Richard Hassell were created for the hotel, inspired by the first-generation Singaporean immigrants for whom this building held great significance.
Cap Karoso, Sumba, Indonesia
Just a cheeky 30-minute flight from Bali, Sumba is Indonesia’s (sort of) secret paradise. The largely undeveloped island boasts rugged coastlines, white sand beaches, wild horses and, as of last year, Cap Karoso.
Heading the design was GFAB Architects, who incorporated plenty of local influences like Indonesian art, handmade teaware and hand-carved wood furniture. The resort has 47 rooms and 20 villas, plus an organic farm that also acts as a farming school. Its founders, Fabrice and Evguenia Ivara, are determined to make a difference. Consulting Sumba’s indigenous community, they’ve committed to initiatives including hiring 80 per cent of the staff locally and using 50 per cent solar power for energy.
Innit Lombok, Indonesia
Located on the private island of Ekas Bay, Innit Lombok sits on a 250-metre stretch of private beach. The property boasts seven beach houses, 26 ocean view villas and 27 hilltop residences. The earthy, minimalist design by architects Andra Martin and Gregorius Supie Yolodi allows the hotel’s lush surroundings to do the talking.
Guests here can enjoy farm-to-table dining, some of the world’s best surfing and movies under the stars at the hotel’s outdoor cinema.
Coco Marett is a writer and editor who grew up between Hong Kong and Melbourne. She currently heads the travel section for Tatler Asia, and manages the Tatler Travel account on Instagram. She is known for her features on unique, under-the-radar properties and destinations. She's also known for her in-depth interviews that paint a refreshingly candid portrait of influential figures across various industries —from artists to political figures, CEOs to celebrity chefs. Follow her on Instagram @cocomarett
