The 20 New Hotels Our Accountant Will Never Forgive Us For in 2025
Over There, Even Our Dreams Won’t Feel Cramped.
Let’s be honest. Starting our first newsletter with a list of hotel openings isn’t exactly groundbreaking. It’s almost ironic for an agency that pushes hoteliers to do things differently. But at Zero, doing things differently also means knowing when to embrace clichés and shatter them at the perfect moment.
With us, even the obvious comes with a twist. This selection reflects our taste and what we believe sets the standard for hospitality’s future. It’s a bold blend of audacity, extravagance, and timeless sophistication.
Follow our lead and you’ll know exactly where to find us throughout the year.
- Marine’s Picks -
NIHI Rote, Indonesia
When Giulia and I first got to know each other, we made a list of the places we consider to be benchmarks for today’s hospitality. NIHI Sumba made it into our top 3. The good news is that the brand has announced its first expansion with the opening of a property on the island of Rote, southeast of Sumba and Flores (just two hours by flight from Bali or Jakarta). The property will feature 23 thatched-roof villas with private pools overlooking the waves, as well as activities that made NIHI Sumba famous, including the renowned “spa safari.”
What makes it exciting: The hotel opening on Bo’a beach (Q4 2025) will be preceded by the launch of the NIHI Rote Hospitality Academy this summer. This training facility will help locals gain valuable skills and increase the standard of living for the island’s residents. It’s as interesting from a development perspective as it is for solving recruitment challenges (plus, it’s a strong marketing asset). Additionally, prices will be significantly more affordable than at the Sumba location.
Soho Farmhouse Ibiza, Spain
Soho House is a bit like a toxic ex. It’s mocked you a few times and often let you down. But you still go back because it’s just so damn sexy, and it always deserves another chance. Even though it’s hard to admit, I felt a little thrill when I heard about the opening of this new location. The promise is simple: experience the Farmhouse spirit of Oxfordshire, with its large restaurant and organic garden, at the heart of a working olive grove. Farming yes. But with Céline boots on your feet.
What makes it exciting: Because the Farmhouse will apparently take over the Cas Gasi agroturismo, a rural paradise founded by Margaret von Korff twenty years ago (who, according to the limited details revealed, will remain in charge…). This guarantees the preservation of the soul of the place, just ten minutes from the village of Santa Gertrudis. We’re hoping the House will be open year-round, so we can enjoy the White Isle off-season.
LILLØY Lindenberg, Norway
A leader in lofi luxury hospitality, Lindenberg is a German group that inspires both Giulia and me. After its properties in Frankfurt and Bali, it will open a new location in early 2025, just an hour from vibrant Bergen. On a remote island, swept by the winds and surrounded by emerald fjords, guests will have two options: total isolation with exclusive access to the entire island or a stay on a shared island. Kayaking in the calm waters at dawn, enjoying freshly harvested seaweed, relaxing in the sauna, gathering around the fire under a starry sky... everything you could dream of to start the year off right.
What makes it exciting: Because Lindenberg is a group that fully commits to environmental respect: solar energy, zero waste, vegan dining... A personal anecdote: I stayed at their Bali property during my honeymoon, and we had a huge wasp nest in our room. The staff apologized profusely, but they couldn’t do anything as the use of chemicals was out of the question. It was bold to risk losing clients, but we respect their sincere approach. No doubt this mindset will be a perfect match for Norway.
SIRO Boka Place, Montenegro
“The Ultimate Active Lifestyle Hotel.” On paper, Kerzner’s new hotel brand had everything to appeal to me. I dreamt of staying at its first Dubai location, marketed as an athlete’s paradise, before being somewhat disappointed by the feedback from those who spent several days there (in short, “more pretending than delivering”). In spring 2025, SIRO will open a second location in the Bay of Kotor with the same concept, and still top-notch fitness facilities. It seems like the right time to give it a try.
What makes it exciting: Since the opening of SIRO One Za’abeel, many hotels with the same value proposition (fitness and recovery programs, rooms optimized for deep sleep, tailored nutrition...) have opened their doors. This may have allowed the brand to refocus on the core elements of its concept and offer a truly innovative experience.
Titilaka by Andean, Peru
Alright, we’re cheating a bit: Titilaka already exists. Like the four other properties of Andean, built by hand with intention and innovation, this one also offers a genuine connection with the communities living on the shores of Lake Titicaca. In 2025, twelve new rooms will be added to Suasi, the lake’s only private island. Just two hours by boat from the main property, guests will find themselves completely disconnected (no cell service or Wi-Fi) with a program focused on well-being and regeneration.
What makes it exciting: Andean’s founder, Ignacio Masias, is one of those hoteliers who does things differently. With a sincere and honest approach that truly redefines the word “authentic.”
Oshom Bali, Indonesia
A boutique hotel nestled in the heart of a creative city dedicated to change-makers? That’s all it takes to make me want to take a closer look. The city of Nuanu, a 44-acres social laboratory (just 10 minutes from Tanah Lot Temple), has been designed as an ecosystem focused on education, art, culture, and well-being. We can easily picture ourselves settling in for a few weeks, working amidst lush greenery, with views of the Indian Ocean and direct access to a black sand beach.
What makes it exciting: Beyond the Disney-like feel of this “future city” that seems to have sprung up overnight, Oshom will likely become a melting pot of artists in residence, nomadic creatives searching for meaning, and 2.0 utopians from all over the world. Everything we love at Zero.
The Twenty Two, New York
This brand always knows how to surprise us. While the playful and decadent atmosphere of their London location feels more at home in the East End than in the upscale surroundings of Grosvenor Square (Mayfair), where it set up shop three years ago, their New York counterpart will be in Union Square. Think it’s boring? Wait until you see the nine-story historic building they’re renovating, once owned by heiress Margaret Louisa Vanderbilt. American glamour at its finest.
What makes it exciting: The sensual atmosphere, the Art Deco bars, the sultry suites, and the candlelit terraces. Not to mention the exclusive members’ club, where we’re sure to spend the hottest nights of our lives with the city's night owls.
Basecamp Samburu, Kenya
No secrets here: despite some incredible experiences in the past, safaris are definitely not my type of trip. However, there are a few lodges that manage to catch my attention, and Basecamp Samburu is one of them. I discovered it last year at the We Are Africa trade show in Cape Town. Located in a peaceful valley within the Kalama Reserve, it will have just five tents, all with views of Mount Ololokwe, which the Samburu people consider sacred. A safari like this? Definitely yes.
What makes it exciting: The first images of the camp show the possibility of sleeping under the stars in a four-poster bed, surrounded by wildlife. As if that wasn’t enough, the elevated structure will also feature a jacuzzi. We can already picture ourselves there, gazing at the starry sky with a wild soundtrack.
Shenandoah Mansions, USA
More of the U.S., but for good reason! At Zero, we’ve developed a real passion for the Ash brand, which represents everything hospitality should be today (we’ll dive into more details in a future newsletter…). After making its mark in Baltimore, New Orleans, Detroit, and Providence, Ash is about to open a new location in Richmond. Picture the elegance of the Belle Époque meeting the splendor of the Victorian era, with a typographical aesthetic inspired by a London facade. Say no more.
What makes it exciting: From a journalistic standpoint, Ash hotels are designed like a well-crafted article, meaning each one has its own angle. They hover right on the edge of kitsch and the opulence of themed hotels, never crossing over into bad taste. In the two properties I’ve had the pleasure of staying at (Ulysses and Peter & Paul), the staff was exceptionally kind, attentive, and all at an unbeatable value for money in the U.S. The day I find a flaw with Ash, I’ll call you!
- Giulia's Picks -
Pensione America, Italy
It’s hard to hide it with a name like mine—Italy runs through my veins. So, when I heard about the addition of a pensione to the Collezione Em portfolio, in one of the first villas built in Forte dei Marmi, I was instantly intrigued. While the term now refers to a small, often run-down, three-star hotel, it once described places where people spent luxurious summer vacations in the 20th century. The 18 suites here will be designed in that spirit, just two minutes from the beach and the iconic bagni.
What makes it exciting: From a storytelling perspective, using the past of a place to highlight old-fashioned consumption habits is always a great idea (as long as the story is authentic!). The Pensione America will be a five-star boutique hotel, which is a bit contradictory to the current meaning of the word, and we can’t wait to see how much of this vintage aesthetic will shine through in the communication.
Hotel Humano, Mexico
Surf and I parted ways soon after leaving Surfer's Paradise in Australia (where I lived during my studies). However, the opening of this new hotel by the Mexican group Grupo Habita might just tempt me to face the waves of Puerto Escondido once again. On Zicatela Beach, 39 raw and minimalist rooms showcase the work of local artisans, like the drawings by Lucio Muniain that adorn the walls. A quiet luxury that's more relevant than ever.
What makes it exciting: Hotels like Humano, with contemporary design, refined aesthetics, and polished communication, have popped up in abundance in this part of Oaxaca State over the past few years. But, even if it lacks a little originality, I can’t help but dream of creating new hotel experiences with my meetings on the sand—exactly what I hope for in the new year.
Brenners Park Hotel & Spa, Germany
I know what you're thinking. What a strange idea to feature this hotel, founded in 1872, among the most exciting new openings of 2025! But after eight years at Le Bristol Paris, I’ve kept strong ties with Oetker Collection, and I’m already buzzing with anticipation for the grand reopening of this sanctuary in the heart of the Black Forest. While Baden-Baden is mostly known for its spa treatments, thermalism here takes on a whole new allure.
What makes it exciting: The spa at Brenners Park Hotel & Spa is one of the most beautiful in Europe, and the medical reset experience is particularly appealing, with everything from orthomolecular therapy to a Kirsch Sour at the Fritz & Felix restaurant (I promise, it’s a perfect match).
Capella Taipei, Taiwan
After securing the top spot on the 50 Best list with its Bangkok property, Capella continues to roll out exciting new openings this year. While Macau and Kyoto (and soon Osaka with the Patina brand) hold their fair share of promise, It's Capella Taipei that truly captures our attention. Located in the lively Songshan district, the hotel's design has been entrusted to André Fu, the interior architect behind The Upper House and Villa La Coste. The 86 rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
What makes it exciting: The brand reaffirms its commitment to standing out with extraordinary experiences designed by "Capella Culturists" to explore the essence of Taiwan. From harvesting tea leaves at a remote farm to a traditional tea ceremony, and a celestial cycle-based spa offering treatments… At Zero, we can't wait to see the full program!
Son Ermitá & Binidufá, Spain
From ruins to palace: this is the motto of the Vestige Collection since its inception. After conquering Minorca with its estate Son Vell, two more hotels will be added to the portfolio in 2025. On one side, Son Ermità, an ancient building in golden hues with panoramic views of the mountains and the sea. On the other, Binidufà, with its red-hued buildings nestled in a peaceful valley. These two 18th-century farms, beautifully restored and separated by a forest, have been transformed to offer 11 rooms each. A Balearic yin and yang that we look forward to discovering in June.
What makes it exciting: When it comes to meticulous restoration and heritage preservation, the Madera Fernandez family sets the bar. By bringing architectural treasures back to life, they are the guardians of a cultural legacy long neglected in Spain. The group has started using the term “regeneration” in its communications, and we’re curious to see what path they will take next…
Tulåh Clinical Wellness, India
Since I didn’t find a stay at Buchinger under the Christmas tree (see my crushmas list here), I’m expanding my horizons for 2025. And when it comes to wellness retreats, the choices are endless. I met the founders of this 35-room sanctuary, nestled in the untouched nature of Kerala, during ILTM Cannes. After a series of tests upon arrival, guests are prescribed a tailor-made program that blends modern medicine, Ayurvedic treatments, and therapies based on Chinese medicine principles. Perfect for realigning all your chakras.
What makes it exciting: In addition to standing out from existing offers with its blend of East and West, the programs also focus on intellectual improvement and emotional well-being through Vedanta, an ancient Indian philosophy.
Sir Devonshire Square, London
Let’s be honest, Sir Hotels aren’t always the first choice. But they’re always a reassuring option when arriving in a city you don’t know. The hotels are smartly designed, the staff is friendly, and the prices are hard to beat (for example, in January, you can book a room in Amsterdam for just €150 a night). All these reasons make us excited about the transformation of a former textile warehouse into an 81-room hotel just steps away from Liverpool Street Station.
What makes it exciting: Because Spitalfields is a neighborhood we’re increasingly eager to explore. It’s the perfect excuse to stop by Libreria, Marine’s favorite bookstore, where books aren’t categorized by genre, but by mood or desire. With competitive rates compared to other parts of East London, Sir Devonshire Square could quickly become a go-to spot for quick stays in the British capital.
Ardbeg House, Scotland
Let’s be honest, neither Marine nor I are fans of whisky. At first glance, Islay, the epicenter of peaty malts, wasn't high on our list of destinations. That was before LVMH acquired the former Islay Hotel, an iconic property on this wild, windswept west coast. The extensive transformation will turn it into a 12-room haven with a restaurant, bar, and whisky cave for all the Very Into Peat travelers.
What makes it exciting: The redesign of the property and distillery transformation have been entrusted to Russell Sage Studio, the team behind Glenmorangie House, The Fife Arms, and The Goring. So, we’re expecting a touch of flamboyance and eccentricity to awaken this sleepy house.
Le Manoir du Sphynx, France
I have a special connection to Brittany. It’s where I spent my teenage summers, had my first parties, and experienced my first loves… I vividly remember the Manoir du Sphinx, a family-run hotel perched on the heights of Trestrignel beach. Needless to say, I was thrilled to learn that this 20th-century villa would reopen under Les Domaines de Fontenille brand in the spring. It's the perfect spot for our future coastal getaways.
What makes it exciting: With already eleven properties in France, Italy, and Spain, Les Domaines de Fontenille announced last month that LVMH has entered its capital to develop "experience-based hospitality." We’re eager to see the direction the group will take to align with this goal, and what their next gems will be (a building in Aix-en-Provence has already been confirmed for 2026).
DO YOU WANT MORE?
The ones that aren't technically hotels, but we still really, really want them.
The Nigo House, Tokyo
It could easily be mistaken for an AI-generated image, given how unreal the project seems. But this cliffside house overlooking Tokyo Bay is the latest creation by the Japanese hospitality brand NOT A HOTEL, in collaboration with icon NIGO. Starting this fall, lucky owners will access the house via a private tunnel. Inside, they’ll find a living room furnished with Jean Prouvé and Pierre Jeanneret pieces, a listening room, a dedicated sadō (tea ceremony) space, a traditional wooden bath, and sleeping pods inspired by the famous Japanese capsule hotels. A true collector, NIGO will also install a giant KAWS sculpture on the roof—a lighthouse facing Mount Fuji. Magic.
Villa Junot, Paris
Did we save the best for last? Quite possibly. After a tour of stunning properties across France (Provence, Courchevel, Cap-Ferret, Hossegor…), Iconic House is setting up in the French capital. As usual, nothing less than spectacular! Head to Montmartre, on the chic Avenue Junot, to discover the private mansion of a former operetta singer. A plunge into surrealism, with experiences centered around art, gastronomy, wellness, and sports. The renderings left us speechless… While we wait until June, we invite you to dive into their Icons guides to discover the hidden gems of each region’s locals.
I really want to try them all! 😍