The inaugural 50 World’s Best Hotel Awards were revealed on Tuesday, September 19th, 2023, at a grand awards ceremony held at London’s Guildhall. Curated by The World’s 50 Best Hotels, these awards celebrate the pinnacle of hotel experiences globally. The list is carefully crafted by The World’s 50 Best Hotels Academy, comprising 580 anonymous leaders in the hotel industry, each selected for their expertise and profound background in the realm of hospitality. This momentous event brought together luminaries from the hotel industry to celebrate excellence, culminating in the revelation of the prestigious title of “The World’s Best Hotel.”

Among the top-ranked hotels, three projects masterfully designed by BAMO graced the top 25 of the illustrious list. Most extraordinary is Passalacqua, which claimed the title of #1 Hotel in the World as well as the distinction of being the #1 Hotel in Europe.

 

Capella Bangkok, ranked at an impressive #11, and also secured the Nikka Best New Hotel Award, showcasing its exceptional quality and innovation. And finally the Four Seasons Madrid, landing at #24, added to BAMO’s triumph.

Pamela Babey, Principal Designer of Passalacqua, emphasized the significance of client dedication to design. She said, “Our clients who prioritize design alongside the guest experience, service, and operations are the true visionaries. They understand that a harmonious blend of these elements results in exceptional properties that delight guests beyond measure. This recognition is a tribute to their commitment to excellence.”

Passalacqua – #1 Hotel in the World

Lake Como at its most glamorous and luxurious with a hint of bohemianism

Nestled in the picturesque Lake Como, Passalacqua is the epitome of glamour and luxury with a dash of bohemian charm. This masterpiece, set within an 18th-century villa that was once the home of composer Vincenzo Bellini, is the creation of the De Santis family, known for the Grand Hotel Tremezzo. With just 24 rooms, Passalacqua immerses guests in the finest Italian craftsmanship, enveloping them in a sumptuous display of ornate Baroque elegance. The hotel’s seven acres of terraced gardens, olive groves, and a spectacular pool terrace enhance its enchanting lakefront location, creating a private haven that has captivated guests.

Valentina De Santis, owner of Passalacqua, shared her heartfelt sentiments with press following the awards ceremony, “Passalacqua is a place of wonders on the lake. Here, our aim is to bring back ‘Meraviglia,’ that sense of awe you feel in a place that is everything you imagined and yet still manages to amaze and astonish you, and ‘Villeggiatura,’ the lost art of having a true home away from your own home.” She continues, “To open a hotel is an experience that is hard to put into words. It is very much like when you prepare a theater show, you spend months, even years, planning every single detail of the performance, you feel the pressure that everything needs to be perfect, you dream of it every night, and all of a sudden you find yourself on stage with hundreds of spectators watching at you. Renovating the historic Villa Passalacqua to convert it into a jewel property was a labor of love, it was like choosing the interiors for our own home. A true family affair.”

  

Capella Bangkok – #11 Hotel in the World & Nikka Best New Hotel Award

Sun-soaked sanctuary on the River of Kings

Capella Bangkok, a modern gem perched on the banks of the Chao Phraya River in the heart of Bangkok’s Charoenkrung district, showcases local heritage and luxurious design. Each room features floor-to-ceiling windows and a balcony or terrace, allowing guests to soak in the breathtaking river views. The soft hues, natural materials, local artwork, and marble bathrooms are emblematic of the meticulous attention to detail. Its unique blend of boutique style, riverside views, and exceptional culinary experiences earned it a spot in the top ranking along with the prestigious Nikka Best New Hotel Award.

    

Four Seasons Madrid – #24 Hotel in the World

Modern glamour meets unrivaled hospitality at an urban hideaway with a local heart

Four Seasons Madrid is a stunning amalgamation of seven landmark buildings meticulously restored to create a sprawling haven at the heart of the Spanish capital. Located at the convergence of two iconic streets, it is a place where contemporary aesthetics blend seamlessly with Spanish heritage. Its commitment to art and culture shines with over 1,500 pieces of artwork throughout the public spaces. With 200 elegantly chic bedrooms, a four-story spa, and a diverse culinary scene, the Four Seasons Madrid offers modern luxury and Spanish hospitality.

 

“Design is the first layer of the guest experience,” says BAMO Principal, Anne Wilkinson, “It sets the stage and creates the backdrop for unforgettable memories. When design harmonizes with all of the other elements of great hospitality, it makes for a truly magical property.”

As we celebrate these outstanding achievements, BAMO remains committed to pushing the boundaries of design and creating memorable spaces that captivate and inspire. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our visionary clients and talented design teams who have made these iconic hotels possible. Here’s to many more remarkable projects in the future!