The Luxe List 2015: The Langham, Sydney, Australia

In a traditionally sleepy pocket of central Sydney, The Langham is slowly breathing life into leafy streets lined with historic buildings. Some US$21 million was spent on revamping the old Observatory Hotel in a four-month makeover that is quite remarkable. Luxurious trimmings are effortless and understated, from the hand-designed rugs and vintage mirrors to the bespoke lighting, oversize vases, and marbled fireplaces—there are five in the lobby alone—all complemented by a strong collection of Australian art from the likes of Brett Whiteley and Albert Tucker. A cool palette of amber, teal, cream, and gold works perfectly throughout, splashed with pink in the Palm Court where high tea is served on custom Langham Wedgwood china. Rooms and suites have classic personality: the Langham Suite’s leather-studded guest chairs are the ideal window-side perches for gazing over colonial rooftops to Sydney’s western harbor. Below ground, the 20-meter-long indoor pool has retained its original star-dappled ceiling depicting the southern hemisphere skies, while the adjoining spa also sparkles thanks to a recent brush of gold paint.

61-2/9256-2222; Langham Hotels; doubles from US$235