Hotel Design

Travel in Style at 7 Scene-Stealing EDITION Hotels in Europe, the Middle East and Africa

by Erica Firpo

Photograph by Erica Firpo

reykjavik edition penthouse

Appreciate local design details at EDITION properties around the globe, like The Reykjavik EDITION. (Photo: Marriott International)

Indefatigably chic and honoring local aesthetics, each of these seven EDITION hotels redefine a sense of place in their city thanks to unique design elements and locally inspired touches.

Developed in collaboration with legendary hotelier Ian Schrager, EDITION hotels present a carefully curated aesthetic, with each property designed to reflect a destination’s most memorable cultural elements.

Experience these local details at seven one-of-a-kind properties around the globe.

The Reykjavik EDITION, Iceland

The Reykjavik EDITION’s minimalist vibe tracks perfectly with the Icelandic capital’s reputation as a sophisticated innovator.

Local craftsmanship and elements of regional topology are playfully melded throughout the property’s design ethos: An exterior of charred timber and blackened steel frames plays on Iceland’s volcanic history. Likewise, interior details such as the entrance’s basalt pavement, a 13-foot basalt totem and a video display mimicking the Northern Lights maintain a rich sense of place.

Each of the hotel’s 253 rooms and suites showcase the cozy Icelandic palette with warm woods, faux-fur rugs and artisan wool throws by Istex. Similarly, art featuring Iceland’s iconic landscapes, created by famed Icelandic artists Pall Stefansson and Ragnar Axelsson, brings the countryside to you.

The Madrid EDITION, Spain

madrid edition
A prime location and minimalist color palette help define The Madrid EDITION. (Photo: Marriott International)

Before one even enters its lobby, The Madrid EDITION stuns thanks to its prime location between Madrid’s Plaza Mayor and Gran Via. Once inside, the luxe hotel’s thoroughly modern decor (designed by Ian Schrager) continues to delight. The 200 rooms and suites feature a pacifying palette of whites and creams offset by dramatic dark oak paneling and neo-baroque headboards.

Many of the hotel’s two-story suites boast floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the Royal Palace, Descalzas Square or the Almudena Cathedral, while a selection of rooms offer private terraces.

Guests can continue to savor time on property at Peruvian tapas and Mexican restaurants helmed award-winning chefs Diego Munoz and Enrique Olvera, as well as the property’s three bars, and of course, Madrid’s largest rooftop pool.

The Bodrum EDITION, Turkey

bodrum edition beach and pool
The Aegean Sea is the star of the show at The Bodrum EDITION. (Photo: Marriott International)

Set along Turkey’s Bodrum Peninsula, The Bodrum EDITION‘s whitewashed interiors Turkish accents dazzle, though the design star here is undoubtedly the sparkling Aegean Sea.

Nearly all rooms boast striking views of the Aegean Sea, and if that’s not enough to help you unwind, the hotel’s Turkish Hamman, infinity pool and white sand beach serve as oases of relaxation.

When it’s time for a meal, savor Turkish flavors at Kitchen, Peruvian fare at signature restaurant Brava, or an Asian-inspired menu at the lively beachside venue, Morena.

The Dubai EDITION, UAE

dubai edition chandelier
The Dubai EDITION’s lobby chandelier dazzles. (Photo: Marriott International)

Dubai is a pinnacle of modern luxury, and The Dubai EDITION provides an understated elegance in the midst of the over-the-top city. Nestled in the heart of downtown Dubai, the property’s 275 guest rooms feature polished stone, blond wood and artwork that nods to the Dubai Fountains — which can be viewed from many of the balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows.

Guests are greeted by a dazzling chandelier in the lobby and will note public spaces feature design accents from Venice, London and Barcelona — in recognition of Dubai’s global influence.

For jaw-dropping views, head to Thia Skylounge; this poolside bar and lounge offers a bird’s-eye view of the Burj Khalifa. Additionally, architecture fans and foodies will love Duomo; The Dubai EDITION’s restaurant features 50-foot-high vaulted arch ceilings reminiscent of Milan’s Piazza del Duomo.

The London EDITION, U.K.

london edition bar
Grab a meal or cocktail at Berners Tavern. (Photo: Marriott International)

The London EDITION — tucked behind a neoclassical facade on busy Berners Street in the city’s Fitzrovia district — offers a luxe display for Ian Schrager’s signature minimalist design.

Elegant, with a homey feel thanks to oak flooring and wood-paneled walls, each of the 173 guest rooms and suites has the ease of a luxury escape and hints of a nautical theme.

Custom furnishings and moody photography by Hendrik Kerstens complete the sense that you’re sleeping in a berth on a private yacht.

Soak up glam vibes — and tuck into a divine meal — at Berners Tavern, where Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton curates his modern take on British dishes, like roasted wild venison sourced from the Scottish Highlands.

The Barcelona EDITION, Spain

barcelona edition staircase
Head to Punch Room and experience the dramatic staircase, a true design showpiece. (Photo: Marriott International)

The Barcelona EDITION overlooks the city’s artsy El Born neighborhood and fits right into its locale thanks to Ian Schrager’s sleek design elements — including the lobby’s sweeping curved staircase.

The 100 guest rooms take a more low-profile vibe with soft lights and Spanish touches, such as original Catalan art pieces, headboards lined with Spanish leather, locally designed wooden chairs and cozy window boxes where you can munch on Antoni Gaudí–inspired welcome snacks.

Sip and savor a drink at Punch Room, the hotel’s speakeasy-inspired lounge, accessed by a dramatic, white spiral staircase. Cozy up on a green velvet couch, and order one of the bar’s specialty punches, made with local spirits and served in vintage silver bowls.

When you’re ready for a change of scene, head to Cabaret, an underground (in all meanings) after-hours club where local DJs and signature cocktails keep things rocking.

The Abu Dhabi EDITION, UAE

abu dhabi edition lobby
Regional inspirations are at play in The Abu Dhabi EDITION. (Photo: Marriott International)

A feat of architecture on Abu Dhabi’s Al Bateen marina, The Abu Dhabi EDITION is noted for the sophisticated curves and lines of its exterior, as well as its interior atrium of undulating walls with a neutral color palette.

Regional inspirations play out through the 198 guest rooms, where local basket-weaving techniques inspire herringbone-patterned oak floors and walls are paneled in warm wood and decorated with the work of Brett Weston, whose photos of undulating sand dunes reference the surrounding environment.

The hotel features three restaurants helmed by Michelin-starred Chef Tom Aikens: Market at EDITION, Oak Room and Alba Terrace. When you’re ready to unwind, head to ANNEX, a three-story space for socializing, or enjoy treatments at the spa and salon.

Find more inspiration with Travel by Design.