5 anticipated luxury hotel openings in 2023

From a restored 15th century palazzo in Rome’s World Heritage-listed historic city centre, to a design-led stay 80 floors above Melbourne’s CBD – here are five of the most anticipated luxury hotels we’re watching out for in 2023.

Raffles London at the OWO

Scheduled to open in London’s springtime, between March and June 2023, is Raffles London at the OWO. It signifies the first Raffles property in London, in an enviable location within the Old War Office, built in 1906, on the corner of Whitehall and Horse Guards Avenue. Legendary characters of history have walked the halls of the building, including Sir Winston Churchill and Ian Fleming, inspired by his time as a liaison officer in the OWO to create the James Bond character and timeless spy novels. Its 120 rooms and suites have been designed by French, New-York based architect and interior designer, Thierry Despont. Stay for the 11 restaurants and bars helmed by leading chefs and mixologists, with some that overlook the Mall and Buckingham Palace; a four-storey Guerlain Wellness Centre; or the 20m indoor infinity pool. Sought-after suites will be in the building’s corner turrets, offering vistas over Horse Guards and St. James’s Park.

Six Senses Rome

The 96-room Six Senses Rome marks the brand’s first opening in Italy. The sustainable and wellness threads that run through the Six Senses properties will be evident here too, with the hotel aiming to provide an oasis of greenery and calm amid the vibrancy of Rome’s Via del Corso. A stay here will see you just steps away from the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site of Rome’s historic centre. The hotel is housed within the newly restored 15^th century Palazzo Salviati Cesi Mellini. Head here for all-day dining overlooking Rome’s historic neighbourhood; while the Six Senses Spa will provide a contemporary interpretation of traditional, ancient Roman baths.

W Sydney

It’s been in the works for some time, but it’s now been announced that the long-awaited W Sydney will open its doors in October, 2023. In a prime position at Sydney’s Darling Harbour, the 585-room W Sydney aims to bring a unique take on modern luxury to the city. The interiors of the distinctive building have been designed by award-winning interior specialists, Bowler James Brindley ­– expect the signature W Hotels’ edge and flair throughout. Elements within are a response to the surrounding environment, including concrete and street art touches of the restaurant, and vibrant colours and patterns used in an infinity pool and two-storey rooftop bar. Guests can stay in ultra-luxury suites, with no two rooms the same and colours inspired by the marine environment – such as bathrooms of azure hues – and walk-in robes with contrasting colour and inflorescence.

The Ritz Carlton, Melbourne

From March 2023, The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne will open on Lonsdale Street in the CBD. With a lobby set on level 80, the 257-room hotel takes its design inspiration from Melbourne city and Australia’s ancient cultures. Pieces by local artists and distinctly Melbourne furnishings, including custom leather and velvet furniture, hand-made glass panels and bespoke light fixtures, will adorn its spaces. Rooms will include marble bathrooms with double vanities, rain showers and oversized bathtubs. Other guest experiences will include hyper-local culinary activities and regionally inspired spa treatments, yoga and vitality pools at the spa on level 64. Its heated indoor infinity pool, with glass, floor-to-ceiling windows that overlooks the city is sure to become a favourite among guests.

The Peninsula Istanbul

Housed in a heritage building along the shores of the Bosphorus Strait, The Peninsula Istanbul will open in early 2023. Located in Istanbul’s Karaköy district, it will form a key part of a new waterfront revitalisation project called Galataport, also made up of a promenade, museums and art galleries, restaurants, boutiques, and a cruise ship port. Walk to several of Istanbul’s prominent landmarks, such as Galata Tower, Galata Bridge and the famed Sultanahmet District. The 177-room hotel will feature landscaped gardens, swimming pools, hammam steam baths at The Peninsula Spa & Wellness Centre, and several restaurants and bars.