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We take a closer look at the different ways Hotel Residences are changing both the hospitality and residential scene with a round up of some of the most exciting offerings...

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Hotels around the world have caught on to the benefit of offering guest stays far beyond the usual holiday rental – with some guests opting to stay for months at a time, or even purchase hotel rooms. As such, it seems only right that the next phase would be Hotel Residences: the opportunity for guests to buy their own properties run by hotels, or to rent out entire buildings and mansions for their holiday needs.

Claiming all the comforts of a home, hotel residences – especially those in the high end, luxury market – have the added benefit of being able to utilise incredible hotel facilities; many of them are designed by well-known architects and interior designers, for that extra special touch. Popular with developers, hotels and property owners alike, the Hotel Residences trend continues to grow and shows no signs of slowing down.

With this in mind, we’ve chosen some of the most exciting offerings, and taken a closer look at the different ways Hotel Residences are changing both the hospitality and residential scene…

The Middle House

Designed by Italian architect Piero Lissoni, The Middle House and Residences has been created to work as a calm respite, set within China’s biggest international metropolis, Shanghai. Lissoni and his studio, Lissoni Architettura, have created The Middle House’s façade, and were also responsible for the interior design of all public spaces, guest rooms, and the mid-stay apartments of two tower buildings. Tower 5 holds the 111 bedroom hotel, as well as restaurants, swimming pools, the hotel spa, and an events space. Meanwhile, Tower 6 holds 102 residences that range from studios through to two bedroom apartments.

Creating a vibrant, textured finish, The Middle House’s façade is an array of rounded aluminium louvers; these also provide share and privacy to the guestroom. Meanwhile, Lissoni’s interiors bring together contemporary elements with the history and culture of local craftsmanship. Each living space within the residences are divided by semi-transparent partitions, while finely carved wood panels mark the barrier between living room and bedroom. Natural materials have been used throughout, complemented by the neutral colour palette, which includes warm white walls, and dark brown on the brushed bamboo parquet and the bathroom’s ceramic floor.

AKA Hotel Residences

Across the USA, and with one location in London, AKA Hotel Residences have perfected the art of balancing the hospitality of a boutique hotel with the space and comfort of an apartment. Each residence is designed for weekly or monthly stays, offering a range of studio, one and two bedroom furnished apartments. Each building is also equipped with wellness, lifestyle and business amenities, including cafes, lounges, fitness centres and cinemas, where guests can unwind or meet other residents.

Most of AKA’s residences have separate living and sleeping areas, and are noticeably larger than the standard for hotel accommodation. Each of the residences also features a fully equipped kitchen with high end appliances, and the AKA team have worked with Italian artisans to create made-to-order furnishings that fill each space. Each AKA location also promotes a ‘Live It!’ programme, which connects guests with local businesses and invites them to ‘live like a local’, learning new skills or talents during their stay.

Monkey Island Estate Private Residences

Owned and run by YTL Hotels, Monkey Island Estate is a one-of-a-kind destination on an island in Bray-on-Thames – a quaint country town just 40 minutes from London. In early 2020, YTL Hotels announced that it is opening six private residences at Monkey Island Estate, offering guests a choice of staying in one of the six charming period buildings. Each of the residences have been named to reflect their individual natures, though each of the buildings’ interiors have been designed to blend a classic, English-garden style with modern comforts.

While the residences’ history might not date as far back as Monkey Island’s, each of the listed, period buildings does have a fascinating story to tell; for example, composer Edward Elgar, Formula One legend Stirling Moss, and Thunderbirds creator Sylvia Anderson, have all lived in properties which have now become the residences. Each one pays homage to its individual history in small, subtle ways, and allows families and groups to enjoy a countryside escape steeped in culture and luxury.

Amanzoe Villas

In the heart of the Peloponnese lies one of the most exclusive developments in Greece: the Amanzoe Villas. Designed by architect Ed Tuttle, this private collection of hilltop villas is located on the highest point of Porto Heli, and has been designed to help transform the area into one of the most sought-after destinations in south east Europe. The Villas adjoin the luxurious Amanzoe hotel, and can be bought outright by interested parties, or rented as holiday lets. Owners of Amanzoe Villas also have the opportunity to put their property back into the Aman rental programme, with the hotel managing bookings.

Ranging from one to nine bedrooms, all of the Amanzoe Villas feature open terraces, sand-coloured marble floors and traditional dry stone-clad walls; all have spacious living and dining areas, and enjoy their own private swimming pools. Those staying at the Villas – whether they are residents or guests – will have exclusive access to the Beach Club, as well as being able to use and enjoy the Amanzoe hotel’s exquisite amenities, including the restaurant, games room, gym and spa.