Design Hotels Exclusive Be Local With Originals

Design Hotels Exclusive Be Local With Originals

The -Originals' journey began at Design Hotels™ with a curiosity about the lives and passions of the hoteliers behind striking properties all over the world. Going behind the scenes was fraught with inspiring stories of individuals who let their unique vision guide them. Above all, the passion for their surroundings and strong local ties helped create authentic spaces for guests to immerse themselves in the local cultures. It then seemed natural for Design Hotels™ to ask them to dream up experiences that will plunge guests right into the heart of their neighborhood's scene. Each is a truly once in a lifetime opportunity.

www.designhotels.com/specials/mbo_experiences

Swedish Superlatives

The stately 19th century structures that make up the 201-room Nobis Hotel in Stockholm beckon you into a cathedral-like lounge with 25 meter ceilings, in a vast open space. Even the smallest rooms here feel grand, with high ceilings and large windows but always with quirky details like eclectic lamps and porcelain door numbers. The driving force behind many of the city's top restaurants, nightclubs and hotels, owner Alessandro Catenacci has only the best planned for his guests. VIP airport service, a helicopter ride to a private island and a two-hour culinary masterclass with his top chef brother Stefano Catenacci, caterer to the Swedish Royal family, followed by dinner at Operakällaren restaurant.

The Never-Hipper Berlin

Despite being 13 years old, an eon for a design hotel, The Mandala does not betray its age. Large spacious rooms that invite guests to stay longer, an interior design concept that is both modern and aimed for longevity, and carefully chosen timeless design pieces keep the hotel ever-fresh in Berlin's fast-paced Potsdamer Platz area. With a plethora of offerings enough to daunt the most seasoned traveler, get a private introduction to the city by Mandala's managing partners Lutz Hesse and Christian Andresen instead. Begin this journey on the 24th and 25^th floors of the famous Kollhof-Tower, and go on to delight your senses with a spa ritual at ONO Spa and a fivecourse dinner at the Michelin-starred FACIL restaurant, amongst other things.

Reviving in Istanbul

In the old quarter of Cihangir, hotelier Tuncel Toprak built Witt Istanbul because it reminded him of how streets looked in his childhood. The hotel takes its cue from this sentimentality in the custom-made furnishings by local artisans, the familiar sandstone façade and homemade breakfasts. It also heeds the future with Ross Lovegrove designed bathroom fixtures in the spacious guestrooms. Journey to the old and new with traditional hammam rejuvenation in Tuncel's favorite place, savoring Turkish cheese from local boutique Antre Gourmet and sipping on the best wines selected by the renowned sommelier of La Cave wine shop.

Up in Swiss Heaven

A timber-framed sanctuary nestled on the slopes above Zermatt, Cervo Mountain Boutique Resort is at once traditional Alpine lodge and comfortingly modern. This is in part due to the structure, a converted 1950s chalet, use of local materials and hunting treasures on the walls that come together with clean lines and clutter-free expansive spaces. A hunting enthusiast, owner Daniel Lauber will take you on the best trails to enjoy spectacular views of Upper Valais. Though you needn't wander far for those of the Matterhorn – see it right from your bed!