Header: Courtesy of Yang & Associates group
Hospitality design is an essential part of hospitality because it helps to create unforgettable experiences that connect functionality, design, and cultural storytelling. From opulent hotels to innovative restaurants, the best hospitality design companies master crafting spaces that captivate guests while enhancing their comfort.
This year, we have selected the top companies from around the world that have been recognized for their excellence in hospitality design. From China’s award-winning Wanda Hotel Design Institute to the innovative work of Singapore’s Eco-Id Architects and the bold concepts of Spain’s El Equipo Creativo, these companies are revolutionizing hospitality design. Whether through sustainability, technology, or visionary interiors, they really are game-changing and set new benchmarks in the field.
Join us as we explore 16 of the most influential hospitality design companies that are shaping the future of guest experiences worldwide.
Wanda Hotel Design Institute
Founded in 1988, Wanda Group has evolved into a multinational conglomerate specializing in modern services, with assets exceeding 700 billion yuan (US$100+ billion) and revenue surpassing 200 billion yuan. Within its diversified portfolio, Wanda Hotels & Resorts, established in 2007, has positioned itself as a leading global asset management company in the hotel industry. By integrating hotel design, construction, and management, it upholds its core values of “People First” and its corporate motto, “Practical, Innovative, Rooted in China.”
A key pillar of Wanda’s hospitality division is the Wanda Hotel Design and Research Institute, a world-class organization specializing in all aspects of hotel design. Its expertise spans architecture, interior design, electromechanical systems, lighting, art, kitchen and laundry planning, and branding. As both a designer and owner, it has created hotels for over 20 brands across the world’s top five hotel management companies. With a portfolio of over 200 high-end hotels, its work has earned 58 international hotel design awards, including the prestigious US Key Award, IIDA, and the LIV Hospitality Design Awards.
Wanda Hotels & Resorts currently manages seven distinct brands, including the luxury Wanda Reign, the deluxe Wanda Vista, and the upscale Wanda Realm. With 200 hotels in operation and over 300 in development, its global footprint spans more than 200 cities, reinforcing its reputation as an industry leader in hotel development and management.
Eco-Id Architects
Founded in 1996 by architects Calvin Sim and Sim Boon Yang, eco.id is a multidisciplinary design firm with a modern, progressive approach. Offering services from master planning and architecture to interior design and branding, the firm specializes in diverse projects, including luxury residences, retail spaces, hotels, and resorts. Regardless of scale, eco.id prioritizes aesthetics, precision, and budget-conscious solutions.
The firm’s name reflects its philosophy: “eco” signifies a deep understanding of context and a commitment to enhancing quality of life, while “id” emphasizes creating unique identities shaped by climate, location, and topography.
Since 1997, eco.id has expanded its presence globally, completing projects in Brunei, China, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, the UAE, and Zanzibar. Its ability to navigate diverse cultural and geographical landscapes underscores its expertise in delivering world-class designs.
The firm’s work has earned international acclaim, winning awards such as the 2019 AHEAD MEA Awards and The International Hotel & Property Awards for Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island. Other notable projects include Waldorf Astoria Platte Island, Amnor Resort Yinchuan, W Retreat Maldives, W Goa, Bawah Reserve, and The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Singapore. eco.id’s designs have been featured in Architectural Digest, CNN, Sleeper Magazine, and Condé Nast Traveller.
An ISO 9001-certified firm since 2001, eco.id operates with over 70 employees across offices in Singapore, Bangkok, Shanghai, and Skopje.
Amnor Resort Yinchuan
Amnor Resort Yinchuan
WATG (Wimberly, Allison, Tong & Goo)
For nearly 80 years, WATG has shaped some of the world’s most iconic hospitality, tourism, and destination designs. Founded in 1945 in Honolulu, WATG is an independent global design firm specializing in advisory, master planning, architecture, landscape, and interior design, with nine offices across three continents.
At WATG, they believe that modern luxury is experiential and authentic, achieved through visionary, innovative yet timeless design. Their work is guided by innovation, sustainability, and a deep respect for local environments, delivering immersive experiences that enhance guest satisfaction and long-term client success.
With a legacy of pioneering hospitality design, WATG continues to push boundaries, crafting luxury resorts, urban landmarks, and mixed-use developments that define modern travel and leisure. From resort paradises to urban landmarks, WATG’s projects uplift local communities by celebrating their heritage, driving tourism, and fostering economic growth. They are committed to crafting extraordinary spaces that leave lasting impressions and enhance the art and craft of hospitality design for generations to come.
WATG has wom many awards, some of which are the LIV Hospitality Design Award for Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts, Nawayef villas, and Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve.
The Ascott Limited
A trusted name in hospitality, Ascott has a presence across Asia Pacific, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the USA, offering a diverse range of serviced residences, coliving spaces, hotels, and independent senior living apartments. Their award-winning portfolio includes Ascott, Citadines, lyf, Oakwood, Somerset, The Crest Collection, The Unlimited Collection, and more.
As a vertically integrated lodging operator, Ascott continues to expand through strategic partnerships, disciplined growth, and expert brand management. With 950+ properties in 220+ cities and a strong global sales and distribution network, Ascott is a trusted partner for new-build and conversion projects, offering management and franchise solutions tailored to investors’ needs.
Celebrating 40 years of hospitality excellence in 2024, Ascott marked the milestone with the ‘Ascott Unlimited’ campaign, embracing transformation and creating boundless experiences for guests, partners, and associates. Over the decades, the company has grown by building strong alliances and turning challenges into opportunities, paving the way for continued success. With a vision to shape and redefine travel experiences, Ascott remains committed to delivering high-quality developments and innovative hospitality solutions that meet the evolving demands of modern travelers.
EDG Interior Architecture + Design
EDG Interior Architecture + Design is a global leader in hospitality branding and design, renowned for strategic innovation and visionary creativity. Founded in 1987, EDG is headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area, with offices in Dallas and Singapore.
With an interdisciplinary team of architects, interior designers, brand strategists, and graphic designers, EDG delivers comprehensive design solutions that merge creativity with business strategy. The firm provides architectural services, including competitive research, site analysis, concept design, feasibility studies, master planning, and interior design.
Working with renowned hoteliers, entrepreneurs, and signature chefs, EDG creates dynamic, high-impact hospitality experiences that redefine luxury and guest engagement. By combining brand strategy with innovative design, the firm has earned a reputation for award-winning projects, like Sora Four Seasons or Mii Amo Spa, that redefine industry expectations.
Bill Rooney Studio, Inc. / BRSS Studio, LLC
Bill Rooney Studio, Inc., a hospitality design firm, specializes in interior design services for select hotel properties and residential commissions that demand unique, tailored solutions. Each design is captivating and distinctive, ensuring the maximum return on investment for their clients.
The design process reflects the company’s dedication to crafting custom design solutions for every client, beginning with thorough research to gain a complete understanding of the project’s objectives, goals, and target audience. Since every project is unique, the company focuses on defining and delivering the key elements that will ensure success for the client’s specific needs. The firm’s principals and senior designers maintain strong personal connections with clients, building relationships that extend well beyond the project’s completion.
Bill Rooney Studio’s award-winning work has garnered respect from clients, developers, brands, and the media.
Christian Horan
JOI-Design | IAD Joehnk + Partner MBB
JOI-Design | IAD Joehnk + Partner MBB is a renowned design studio dedicated to creating exceptional and culturally rich interior spaces. Each project conveys a unique cultural essence, whether inspired by its location or developed independently, reflecting the spirit of Europe and the distinct culture of the place, owner, or brand.
The company combines the latest technical innovations with subtle design details, crafting interiors that meet society’s evolving needs. Their goal is to create unforgettable spaces that emotionally connect with users, telling stories through thoughtful design and natural materials that ensure longevity. Sustainability is central to their philosophy, incorporating recycled and upcycled elements where possible, which brought them the LIV award for eco-friendly interior design for The Usual Rotterdam hotel.
With 36 years of experience, a team of 40 specialists creates bespoke concepts tailored to clients’ needs. Their focus is on international hotel designs, serviced apartments, high-concept offices, and the development of high-quality furniture and lighting.
EL EQUIPO CREATIVO
Founded in 2011 by architects Oliver Franz Schmidt, Natali Canas del Pozo, and Lucas Echeveste Lacy, EL EQUIPO CREATIVO is a renowned interior architecture and design studio based in Barcelona. Specializing in hospitality, gastronomy, and brand spaces, their philosophy is rooted in the belief that spatial design should tell compelling stories and inspire, always supported by a solid conceptual foundation.
The company’s portfolio includes collaborations with some of the world’s most prestigious chefs, including Michelin-star restaurants, establishing their expertise in the industry. Their work has received global acclaim, with features in hundreds of publications worldwide and over 70 international design awards, including the Restaurant & Bar Design Awards, FRAME Awards, and BOY Awards, all recognizing innovative and conceptual design. Their projects, Selva restaurant and Sonora cocktail bar, have both won LIV awards as well.
In addition to project recognition, their studio has earned accolades for their approach and methodology. The company’s been named Best Interior Design Firm (Architizer A+Awards), Interiors Practice of the Year (WIN Awards), and Firm of the Year (The American Architecture Prize).
Olson Kundig
Olson Kundig is a collaborative design practice that bridges built and natural landscapes, founded by Jim Olson in 1966. With offices in Seattle, New York City, and Chicago, the company specializes in architecture, interior design, urban design, planning, and landscape services. Led by 13 principals and over 350 team members, Olson Kundig’s work spans residences, commercial buildings, museums, wineries, and cultural centers worldwide.
Recent expansions in New York and Chicago have reinforced Olson Kundig’s commitment to urban design and cultural exchange. The company’s approach balances functionality with beauty, driven by an understanding of the human scale and collaboration with craftspeople and experts.
Olson Kundig’s work has earned numerous awards and recognitions, including the AIA National Architecture Firm Award, National Design Award, LIV Hospitality Design Award for Comedor, and 17 appearances on Architectural Digest’s AD100 list. The company continues to shape innovative and inspiring spaces globally.
Mode:lina
Mode:lina studio, founded by Paweł Garus and Jerzy Woźniak in 2009, is a creative and dynamic design firm based in Poland. The studio is known for its innovative approach to architecture, focusing on exploration, experimentation, and creating spaces that enhance everyday life. Their design philosophy represents a combination of creativity and technical expertise, emphasizing the importance of human behavior, lifestyles, and strong communication throughout the design process.
The studio’s name, mode:lina, reflects its balance between flexibility and structure, symbolizing a willingness to experiment with form and function. Mode:lina’s projects, such as the Brain Embassy amphitheater, Modern Dacha, Bajgle Etc., Concordia Design Wroclav and Slab House, showcase their commitment to reimagining architectural design and creating meaningful experiences.
With over 100 national and international publications and numerous awards, including the EuroShop RetailDesign Award in 2015, Mode:lina has quickly gained recognition. The founders are celebrated as two of the best Polish architects under 40, known for their innovative and people-centric approach to architecture.
PANORAMA Design Group
Established in 2003, PANORAMA Design Group is renowned for its exceptional ability to create story-driven spatial experiences across large-scale, composite interior spaces. With headquarters in Hong Kong and offices in China, the firm specializes in diverse sectors, including hotel, property development, F&B, retail, kids’ spaces, and health & wellness. Over the years, PANORAMA has garnered over 200 international design awards, including the 2016 IDA Design Award for “Interior Design of the Year”, the 2021 Red Dot Award “Best of the Best” and LIV Hospitality Design Awards for Humansa Wellness and SEP restaurant, showcasing its excellence in the design industry.
The firm’s founder, Horace Pan, is a celebrated figure in Hong Kong’s design scene, known for his boundary-crossing approach to interior design. PANORAMA’s team embraces a dynamic strategy to create unique environments tailored to Asia’s rapidly changing lifestyles. Their work is guided by thorough user research, location considerations, and market trends, ensuring that each project possesses a vibrant and distinctive character.
Pan’s work has been recognized globally, with numerous accolades, including the 2023 Architecture Masterprize “Firm of the Year Award” and the 2022 Archaizer A+Awards “Best Interior Design Firm.” His contribution to the industry has solidified his reputation as a pioneer in interior design, both in Asia and globally.
Yod Group
The YOD Group is a design company focused on transforming the hospitality industry through innovation. Specializing in restaurants, hotels, bars, coffee houses, spa centers, offices, event halls, and gated communities, YOD Group creates not just spaces but successful, sustainable businesses. With a team of top professionals and years of experience in hospitality, including managing two of their own restaurants, they offer expert consulting to optimize costs, identify industry challenges, and ensure business success from the start.
Understanding that each establishment exists within a broader cultural and social context, YOD Group takes an integrative approach to design. They conduct thorough market analysis, positioning, and branding to ensure each project thrives in its environment.
Their approach has earned them numerous prestigious awards, including the 2016 IIDA Interior Design Competition (USA), 2017 Restaurant and Bar Design Awards (UK), multiple Architecture Masterprize wins (2021, 2023, 2024), the 2022 Prix Versailles (France), and the 2023 Thermory Design Awards (Estonia). They’ve also won numerous LIV Hospitality Design Awards for projects like Terra restaurant, Lumo restaurant and HAY Boutique Hotel and SPA by Edem Family.
At YOD Group, their mission is clear: to help business owners create successful, game-changing establishments that thrive in a competitive landscape.
Meyer Davis
Meyer Davis is a renowned multi-disciplinary design studio founded by Will Meyer and Gray Davis. With over two decades of experience, the award-winning firm has established itself as a leader in high-end commercial and residential design, working on luxury hotels, restaurants, retail spaces, and private residences across the U.S. and abroad. Their philosophy of intelligent subtraction ensures that simplicity and restraint lead to the most impactful results.
The company’s impressive portfolio includes collaborations with top hospitality brands like Four Seasons, Rosewood Hotels, The Ritz-Carlton, and 1 Hotels, as well as celebrated chefs such as Daniel Boulud and Jean-Georges Vongerichten. They have also designed luxury retail spaces for Oscar de la Renta and John Varvatos.
Meyer Davis has earned numerous accolades, including Interior Design Best of Year Awards, Boutique Design Gold Key Awards, and a James Beard Award for St. Cecilia in Atlanta. They also won many LIV Hospitality Design Awards for projects like Bar Primi, Grand Hyatt Kuwait, Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol, La Casa Dragones and Marcus at Baha Mar. Their induction into the Hospitality Design Platinum Circle in 2018 further solidified their influence in the industry.
DLSM Studio
DLSM Studio (formerly DesignLSM) is a strategically led creative agency specializing in strategy, branding, and interior design for luxury hospitality, leisure, and senior living industries. Founded in 1988 by Steve La Bouchardière and Simon McCarthy, the studio has built a 37-year legacy of delivering award-winning spaces. Now led by Rachel Pratt and Holly Hallam, DLSM continues to craft compelling and memorable environments for clients worldwide.
With headquarters in Brighton, UK, and an expanding team in the UAE, DLSM offers a global presence while maintaining a deep understanding of local markets. The studio takes a bespoke approach to every project, ensuring that designs authentically reflect each client’s unique brand identity rather than adhering to a singular studio style.
Internationally renowned, DLSM has successfully delivered projects across the UK, UAE, Asia, the USA, Europe, and Africa, leveraging a trusted global network of suppliers and craftsmen. Their portfolio showcases their ability to merge beauty, functionality, and commercial success in every space they create. DLSM Studio has won many LIV Hospitality Design Awards for projects like NAC Dubai, The Alchemist Victoria, Sam’s Waterside, Gaucho Liverpool and Heythrop Park Hotel.
YANG & Associates Group
YANG & Associates Group is a globally recognized creative design firm specializing in upscale hotel interiors. Founded in 1997 by acclaimed hotel designer Yang Bangsheng, the firm is headquartered in Shenzhen, China, with offices in Paris and New York. With a team of over 500 designers, YANG has made a significant mark in international hospitality design, ranking fifth in Interior Design magazine’s Top 100 Hospitality Giants in 2018.
As a pioneer in China’s hospitality design industry, YANG introduced the “all-in-one” design concept, integrating architecture, landscape, interiors, MEP, lighting, and FF&E services. This comprehensive approach ensures seamless project delivery while optimizing costs. The firm is known for its ability to fuse regional culture with global aesthetics, creating distinctive hotel experiences that serve as cultural landmarks.
YANG collaborates with top-tier hotel brands, including IHG, Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, and Kempinski, bringing its “Made in Nature” philosophy to life. The firm has received over 400 design awards, including the IIDA Global Excellence Award and the prestigious Gold Key Awards. The company won several LIV Hospitality Design Awards for projects like Hilton Nanjing Niushoushan, HUALUXE Shanghai Changfeng Park, Hotel Indigo Nanjing Garden Expo and Qinhuangdao Marriott Resort.
Founder Yang Bangsheng, one of China’s most influential designers, has been honored as a “Top 10 Designer of China” for ten consecutive years. His commitment to merging history, art, and innovation continues to shape YANG’s global success, making it a leader in forward-thinking, culturally rich hospitality design.
Jeffrey Beers International (JBI)
Jeffrey Beers International (JBI) is a New York-based design studio with a global reach, specializing in architecture, design, and planning across hospitality, residential, and restaurant spaces. Known for combining the precision of architecture with the sensuality of form, JBI brings emotion to modernism, crafting spaces that are both refined and inviting.
With nearly 40 years of experience, the studio’s signature style is evident in projects like Fontainebleau Las Vegas, Café Boulud New York, and Tribeca’s 108 Leonard. Custom fixtures, rich textures, and elegant proportions define JBI’s approach, striking a balance between modern discipline and artisanal warmth.
JBI has wom many awards, some of which are LIV Hospitality Design Awards for projects like Hard Rock Hotel New York, Omni PGA Frisco Resort and BONDST Hudson Yards.
