Seven of the world’s most incredible hotel suites

By Dominic Lutyens

October 1, 2022

After a temporary closure in the wake of Hurricane Beryl, Mandarin Oriental, Canouan will reopen its doors on 15 November 2024. The team will be delighted to help with any questions

These Mandarin Oriental suites have to be seen – and slept in – to be believed.

The greatest hotel suites are the ones you never want to leave. The perfect suite is cocooning, with every little luxury in place, from fine linens and first-rate coffee machines to soundproofed media rooms. At Mandarin Oriental, a sense of place is also an essential, with design that reflects exactly where you are in the world, whether that’s in the heart of Tokyo or by a Caribbean beach. Then – of course – come the ‘wow factor’ elements, from wraparound terraces to palatial dining rooms, private lifts to dedicated butlers. Here are seven suites that have been making waves and winning awards from the get-go.

Presidential Suite, Beijing

The 260-square-metre Presidential Suite at Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing, Beijing has a vast private terrace, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor haven. It takes its inspiration from an imperial prince’s courtyard mansion – which is apt, given its expansive views of the Forbidden City. Interior design practice HBA masterminded the elegant ivory and powder-blue interior, creating a space that’s tailor-made for entertaining. Other perks include butler service, silk kimonos and a bathtub that’s big enough for two.

Lagoon Villa, Canouan

The three-storey, neo-colonial style Lagoon Villa at Mandarin Oriental, Canouan is your private retreat on this remote island in St Vincent and the Grenadines. When not enjoying unspoilt views of Godahl beach or luxuriating in the infinity pool, guests can gather in the spacious lounge and dining area. There are four magnificent bedrooms, a butler to cater to your whims, and a kitchen should you feel inspired to cook; if not, feast on local seafood at L’Ance Guyac, or try the tasting menu at Tides.

Baraha View Suite, Doha

Designed by the internationally renowned David Collins Studio, the Baraha View Suite at Mandarin Oriental, Doha fuses authentic local touches with an almost theatrical sense of glamour. Nodding to local traditions and landscapes, it has a handsome majlis (sitting room), dune-like designs on the ceilings, and mosaic tiles inspired by Qatari woven baskets. Naturally, every modern luxury is also in place, including a soundproofed media room.

Two-Bedroom Premier Sea View Suite, Dubai

Luxe yet understated, this suite exudes tranquillity.The considered palette of materials includes lacquer, white marble and warm oak, while its private balconies overlook the Arabian Gulf. Guests here at Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai also have a valet box for the discreet delivery of fresh laundry and newspapers. Staying in a suite, you’ll enjoy access to the skyline-view Club Lounge, with its daily afternoon tea and early-evening canapés and cocktails.

Three-bedroom Royal Terrace Suite, Geneva

Arranged across the top floor of Mandarin Oriental, Geneva, the Royal Terrace Suite is a suitably palatial affair. The penthouse centres on a chandelier-lit dining and living space, while the terrace surveys Geneva’s Old Town, backdropped by mountain peaks. Cosy up for a movie night in your state-of-the-art entertainment room, or take the private lift downstairs for a nightcap at MO Bar.

The Parisian Apartment, Paris

This elegant pied-à-terre is one of the largest luxury suites in all of Paris, and pays artful homage to the city’s classic Haussmann-style apartments. It takes in four ensuite bedrooms, two living rooms, a light-filled dining room and a kitchen. Contemporary art by young French talents adorns the walls, while the show-stopping terrace is planted with magnolia trees, hydrangeas and jasmine.

Presidential Suite, Tokyo

On the 36th floor of Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo, the Presidential Suite lives up to its star billing. Framed by floor-to-ceiling windows, its skyline vistas are mesmerising, especially after dark. Its interiors, meanwhile, are a showcase for Japanese craftsmanship, with a back-to-nature theme – like the leafy panels behind the dining table, or the bed’s headboard, hand-embroidered with cherry blossom. Little extras include the pantry and powder room, while an extra room can be connected should you need more space.

About the Author

Dominic Lutyens

Author and journalist Dominic writes about art, design, architecture and fashion for The Financial Times, Elle Decoration and many more.