Pentahotel, Hong Kong, China

With major projects such as Shanghai's Design Republic Commune and Beijing's Opposite House hotel under its belt, design firm Neri & Hu is usually associated with the luxury end of the market. So it was a pleasant surprise to hear it had designed the interiors of Pentahotel's relatively low cost new Hong Kong opening. Located in the up-and-coming neighbourhood of Kai Tak, Kowloon, the 32-storey, 695-room lodgings feature raw interiors, with lots of exposed brick and reclaimed oak. Facilities include five meeting rooms, a gym, an outdoor pool and a games room, and - as with its sister properties - the signature pentalounge (a single space that combines the lobby, reception area, bar and café) lies at the heart of the hotel. Helmed by chef Tony Wong, the restaurant comprises a number of market-style food stations that offer a variety of international and local dishes.