Cathay Members’ Choice Awards

Cathay Members’ Choice Awards 2025: Asia’s best design hotel

These properties are turning heads with incredible architecture and design
By Cathay
In partnership with
Woman pouring tea in an elegant Chinese hotel room with light streaming through the window.

Welcome to the Cathay Members’ Choice Awards. Our annual awards celebrate the very best in travel, dining and lifestyle – as voted for by you, our global community of members.

After receiving tens of thousands of votes, we’re thrilled to share which stunning property you voted to be Asia’s best design hotel, as well as the four nominees that made it to the shortlist. 

Not a member yet? Join now to unlock a world of benefits, rewards and experiences – and get the chance to vote in next year’s awards. 

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Black and white tiles dominate the reception area of Upper House Chengdu
A guest room at Upper House Chengdu looks clean and modern and includes two fluffy white guest beds.

Winner: Upper House Chengdu, Chengdu, Chinese Mainland

Upper House Chengdu  is Chengdu’s most coveted address, seamlessly blending heritage and modernity. Housed within a beautifully preserved Qing-dynasty building, the property extends into a sleek contemporary complex. Outside, tranquil siheyuan-style courtyards and terraces invite quiet reflection, while inside, minimalist interiors echo a design philosophy that honours tradition, with a modern edge. 

“Upper House Chengdu is so elegant and beautiful – fitting for a city as rich in culture and heritage as Chengdu.” - Jing Zhang 

Shortlisted nominees

View of a white-toned room in the Four Seasons Hotel Osaka facing onto the skyline

Four Seasons Hotel Osaka, Japan

Four Seasons Osaka puts a contemporary spin on the ryokan with an aesthetic that favours clean lines and minimalist décor. In a nod to Osaka’s reputation as the City of Water, the shape of the building is inspired by a sailboat, while interior elements are designed to evoke the peacefulness of flowing water.

A bedroom in the Mandarin Oriental Qianmen in Beijing with an exposed beam roof and sophisticated furniture

Mandarin Oriental Qianmen, Beijing, China

Nestled within a hutong , this newly opened property transports you a world away from the bustle of downtown Beijing. It consists of 42 carefully preserved wood-and-brick courtyard houses that offer peace, tranquility and a full immersion into Beijing’s famous hutongs that reveal a slower pace of life. 

Two armchairs face out onto the jungle in hotel room in Shinta Mani Wild in Kampong Seila, Cambodia

Shinta Mani Wild, Kampong Seila, Cambodia

Shinta Mani Wild is a Bill Bensley-designed eco-resort that sits amid pristine rainforest south of the Cardamom Mountains. After descending into the resort via a 400m zipline, you’ll find tented lodges with wide open decks for true immersion in nature. Colourful animal artworks add a whimsical touch and pay tribute to the local wildlife.

Colourful red furnishings and an exposed beam building in a room at Taj Falaknuma Palace in Hyderabad, India

Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad, India

Once a residence for the nizams of Hyderabad, the Taj Falaknuma Palace has been meticulously restored to its former glory, with an impressive façade and ornate interiors. Chandeliers illuminate the opulent dining hall and ballroom, while suites are draped in luxurious fabrics and ornate wallpaper. 

Explore the Hotels nominations

     

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