The China Pavilion – Dunhuang·Con-Stella-Tion, Atelier Alter Architects PLLC. This piece reimagines the multi-religious vaults of Dunhuang as a floating urban cosmos. Each structure reflects the cosmology of a distinct civilization—embracing cultural differences and celebrating coexistence.
Credit Demone
Interiors: A Celebration Beyond the Season — Rooms That Continue to Inspire
In this interior, beauty reveals itself through balance rather than excess. Materials are allowed to speak, light becomes a design element, and spaces feel composed yet deeply human. It is an environment created not to impress momentarily, but to support living—proof that thoughtful design gains depth with time rather than losing relevance.
In May 2025, the China Pavilion opened at the 19th International Architecture Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia, titled “CO-EXIST” and curated by Ma Yansong, founder and principal partner of MAD. It explored the evolving relationship between traditional Chinese spiritual philosophy and the rapid advancement of modern technology, set against the backdrop of a global shift from industrial civilization to the age of intelligence. The pavilion represents a collective voice of emerging Chinese architects, collaborating with academic institutions, research centers, technology innovators, and digital ecology builders. Adopting a “one place, one solution” approach, they merge time, discipline, and method—offering visions that reflect traditional Eastern roots, critique current urban development, and envision new futures for China’s cities, dwellings, and lifestyles.
Pavilion of China – Vault of Heaven – Wang Zigeng, Central Academy of Fine Arts
Credit Demone
Green construction netting—ubiquitous in China’s rapid urbanization—is transformed into a cascading dome inspired by the “sky” of ancient Chinese well architecture. The work weaves fragmented memories of modernization into a spiritual dialogue between humans and the cosmos.
Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino
Credit Belmond
Portofino’s renowned hideaway, Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, has celebrated its grand reopening after renovations by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio (MBDS). The redesigned rooms reflect Italian elegance, craftsmanship, and comfort. Elegant interiors inspired by regional design traditions create peaceful, luxurious retreats. Tactile warmth is added by Midollino Weave headboards and Albissola ceramics, while furnishings from estate sales tell stories of heritage, some restored in Genoese style. This layered approach keeps Splendido intimate and authentically Italian.
Six Senses Yao Noi, Thailand, Phang Nga Bay
Credit IGH Resorts
Phang Nga Bay is one of the world’s most stunning seascapes. The Koh Yao Noi hotel, Six Senses Island Resort in Thailand, offers an authentic taste of nature’s luxury. Here, we’re surrounded by every shade of blue, not just green. It is Thailand reimagined. The ‘stilted and thatched’ atmosphere sets the tone for all-private villas and suites with pools that sit like plush treehouses amid Thailand’s tropical greenery. Choose between breathtaking bay views and romantic forest vistas, with options ranging from 1 to 4 bedrooms.
The Datai Langkawi – One Bedroom Beach Villa (living room)
Credit The Datai Langkawi
At The Datai Langkawi in Malaysia, nestled within an ancient rainforest, this resort blends into its environment. Located on Langkawi, the resort’s lush rainforest offers an escape to reconnect with nature. Datai Bay is one of the top 10 beaches in the world by National Geographic, and the surrounding jungle hosts diverse flora and fauna, many endemic to the area.
Positioned directly on the pristine white-sand beach of Datai Bay, with the ancient Langkawi rainforest as a backdrop, each of the 13 One-Bedroom Beach Villas and the one Two-Bedroom Beach Villa is fully enclosed within an individual lush garden that opens onto the beach. Each of their luxury villas features a private pool and is ideal for guests seeking private accommodations with complete butler service.
Moxy Warsaw City
Credit Marriott International
Moxy Warsaw City combines style and fun in Warsaw’s Wola district, offering travelers a trendy and playful city escape right in the heart of Warsaw. Its lively lobby serves as the social hub, featuring a creative car-themed design that stands out. An Instagram-worthy spot for guests is the 24/7 bar, where they can enjoy a craft cocktail, challenge friends to a game, or relax in stylish lounges designed for both work and leisure. With 256 urban-chic rooms, a distinctive lobby, a 24/7 gym, and grab-and-go dining options, it’s perfect for socializing, working, or unwinding.
Caption: LONSH – Lobby area
Credit The Stratford, Autograph Collection
Also in May, on the hotel’s panoramic seventh floor, The Stratford, Autograph Collection, welcomed a new culinary addition with the launch of Kokin, a Japanese restaurant by acclaimed chef Daisuka Shimoyama. Kokin offered a fire-led, omakase-style menu shaped by tradition and seasonality. It joined Kitchen E20, The Mezzanine and The Lounge as part of The Stratford’s growing collection of dining destinations, continuing the hotel’s commitment to growth, community and high-quality hospitality.
Caption: Lord Charles Hotel – Lobby
Credit Marriott International
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Cape Winelands at the foot of the Helderberg mountain, the Lord Charles Hotel blends old-world charm with contemporary design. Spanning 22 acres of landscaped gardens, this hotel was once part of an 18th-century farm, and offers a tranquil connection to nature and the region’s heritage. Landscaped gardens, stylish spaces that celebrate local flora and fauna with bold artwork by local artists was included in the major refurbishment of 2022. The hotel also provides state-of-the-art meeting spaces for events of all sizes.
Caption: Arcadia Yachts A80new – Salon
Credit Arcadia Yachts
Arcadia Yachts made another advancement towards eco-friendly yachting with a vessel just under 24 meters long that complies with the latest standards for protecting Posidonia oceanica, ensuring full freedom to cruise. The interiors feature muted, natural colors to foster a calm, relaxing atmosphere. The materials are chosen to maximize warmth, hospitality, and durability, providing a wellbeing experience closely connected to the natural environment. Developed by the shipyard on the Sorrento coast, the A80new was designed for curious, cosmopolitan owners who want to cruise immersed in nature, anytime and anywhere.
