We began the year with a preview of new hotels on the horizon. (You might want to check it again, as we’ve already made updates.) Timelines invariably shift in this business, but some spots have stayed right on schedule. (No small feat.) We’re keeping track so that you don’t have to. Here’s the first installment of the best and brightest newcomers that have opened since December, with highlights like:
over-the-top wellness in Dubai
a Grand Canal jewel in Venice
affordable charmers in Jackson Hole and Aspen (really)
Paris chic for under 250€/night (again, really)
Southern Ocean Lodge
Kangaroo Island, South Australia
Like a mighty phoenix soaring over the Great Australian Bight, Southern Ocean Lodge has returned after having been completely destroyed by the wildfires that devastated Australia in 2020. The features that made the beachside resort so special — the sloping design that hugs the coast, the floor to ceiling windows that maximize the views, the easy-breeze coastal decor — are back, having been reimagined by the original architects. Also back are the wildlife adventures to stunning Admirals Arch and sea lion haven Seal Bay and the culinary program built on amazing local produce, wines, seafood, and cheese. What is new are above and beyond ecological considerations that enable the hotel to function totally off the grid, while remaining out of this world.
United States
Warren Street Hotel
New York City, New York
The always-colorful Firmdale Hotels expands its Manhattan footprint, adding Tribeca to its SoHo (Crosby Street Hotel) and midtown (The Whitby) locations. Designer Kit Kemp's warm and maximalist spin on glassy, contemporary constructions is a feast for the eyes (because it always is). This is a brand new build, and they spent a lot of real estate on giant bathrooms (marble, soaking tubs) and landscaped terraces. There are 69 rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows and a dozen residences over eleven floors. Cue spectacular downtown cityscape views. An extremely colorful and cozy drawing room, signature orangery, and an all-day restaurant and bar already have a nice energy to them.
The Weston
Weston, Vermont
We know where you’re going to be this summer: Hiking to waterfalls, playing croquet and generally living your best New England life in the Green Mountains of Vermont. Considering there are only nine rooms, the small-town hotel (pop: 800) makes a big impression (the Sharp family, who conceived of this place, are former owners of the Carlyle in NYC and the Beverly Wilshire in LA). The decor is Americana, with nods to European elegance — four-poster beds, brass hardware, lots of landscape paintings. Expect great service, a state-of-the-art spa, an impressive wine list, and thoughtful touches (free snacks!) everywhere.