Inspired by a lifetime of travel, entrepreneur Ruben Kosenda’s wanderlust has manifested itself as the Kosenda, Hotel Jakarta’s newest boutique property. The Kosenda employs the talent of prolific Indonesian designers Antony Liu and Ferry Ridwan of Studio Ton Ton, whose aesthetic draws on international and modern Indonesian design influences. From bold houndstooth juxtaposed with Indonesian textiles to bespoke wood blocks jutting from hallways, the distinct style is visually fixating but accessible, with interior design by Domisilium Studios. Geometric patterns, mixed materials, and soft lighting contribute to the easy charm of the space. A modern reimagining of Jakarta plebeians by Sanchia T. Hamidjaja adorns a wall near the entrance while corridors tell the history of the city as drawn by Triyadi Guntur Wiratmo. The hotel’s restaurant, Waha Kitchen, melds flavors of the region serving up a mean laksa and deliciously tender roast duck. Rooms build upon the hotel’s aesthetic with patterned headboards and burnt orange duvets, but err on the smaller side starting from just 16 square meters. Perhaps the biggest delight of the hotel is the Awan rooftop lounge. Along with unobstructed views of the skyline, skylights in the floor reveal a plunge nine levels down to the ground.

Jl. KH. Wahid Hasyim No. 127; 62-21/3193-66868; Kosenda Hotel; doubles from US$100