Sense Hotel — Sofia, Bulgaria

Surrounded by such historic buildings as the National Art Gallery, Sense Hotel Sofia cuts a striking figure on Sofia’s famous yellow paved road, the Boulevard Tsar Osvoboditel. The first upscale design hotel in the Bulgarian capital, the contemporary glass structure by Lazzarini Pickering Architetti is innovative, yet sits sympathetically within its grand surroundings. Pivoting brass panels are hidden behind the building’s exterior to screen off the bedrooms and, when combined with Lutron mood lighting, give the façade a continual shimmer. Inside, the subdued palette, teamed with wooden floors and leather upholstery, creates a minimalist, masculine look. Brass shutters in each of the 71 bedrooms pull back to expose floor-to-ceiling glass and views of the National Assembly and St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Amenities include a 15m stainless-steel swimming pool and a wood-clad spa. There’s also a panoramic rooftop bar where you can enjoy a drink before feasting on Mediterranean fusion cuisine in the restaurant.