Luxury at the Top of the World
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3 min
Staying high above the city buzz has become a new definition of luxury. Hotels set within iconic towers and skyscrapers of the world’s metropolises offer an experience where architecture meets hedonism
Being on top of the skyscrapers doesn't only mean having the best view, but having that experience changes your perspective. Hotels on upper floors of the tallest buildings in the world – in London, Shanghai, Dubai, Bangkok or Singapore – offer a new perspective, measuring luxury in the view between Earth and sky.
Atlantis the Royal, Dubai
Atlantis The Royal was conceptualised as the ‘deconstruction’ of the traditional sculptural towers associated with Dubai, taking the form of a stack of individual blocks, each offering a bespoke private experience. This bold architectural vision is reflected in every aspect of the resort, which ignites the horizon with a collection of 760 elegant Rooms, Suites, and Signature Penthouses.
Featuring stunning views of the Dubai skyline and the Arabian Sea, the Suites and Signature Penthouses have private infinity pools. From sky-high swimming experiences and fire-breathing fountains to the world’s highest concentration of celebrity chef restaurants, Atlantis The Royal offers a curated array of awe-inspiring moments.
Marina Bay Sands, Singapore
Since its opening in 2010, Marina Bay Sands has redefined the cityscape of Singapore with its distinctive architecture and unparalleled experiences. Consisting of three iconic towers crowned by the magnificent Sands SkyPark, the property's hotel has approximately 1,850 luxurious rooms and suites, each with breathtaking views of the South China Sea and the Singapore skyline.
Located 200 metres above ground, the 1.2-hectare Sands Sky Park is a tropical oasis featuring restaurants, lush gardens, an infinity-edged swimming pool, and the world's largest public cantilever, which houses an observation deck. The destination also offers a cutting-edge museum, a theatre, convention facilities, world-class entertainment and the best shopping and dining in the region.
J Hotel Shanghai Tower, Shanghai
Located at the top of the 632-meter Shanghai Tower in the heart of Lujiazui, J Hotel offers a bird’s-eye view of Shanghai. The horizon stretches from Hongqiao Airport in the west to the powerful entrance of the Yangtze River into the East China Sea. Guests are welcomed into the vast interior, where six crystal Roman columns lead to an eight-meter-high Shikumen gate – the stately courtyard entrance traditional to Shanghai.
On Floor 101, a sky bridge of glass and metal leads guests to an installation of graceful ballerinas dancing across the sky, crafted by French artist Pauline Ohrel, inviting visitors into a unique world of art and culture. J Hotel Shanghai Tower offers 165 rooms, including 34 suites, and features seven distinctive restaurants and bars – among them Heavenly Jin, one of the highest restaurants in the world.
Rosewood Bangkok, Bangkok
A visually stunning vertical architectural marvel, Rosewood Bangkok draws inspiration from the wai – the traditional Thai gesture of greeting. Its striking silhouette creatively expresses the Thai spirit. This rich cultural heritage continues inside, with interiors and water features that pay tribute to Bangkok, a city famously built on water.
The hotel offers 158 rooms, including 23 distinctive suites and villas, with private pools and terraces. Each space blends contemporary residential style with panoramic views of the Bangkok skyline. Guests can enjoy a brasserie, a signature Chinese restaurant, and the city’s first upscale organic café. On the top floor, a speakeasy bar houses over 6,000 vinyl records and offers a nostalgic, year-round escape – a true celebration of music and vintage charm.
Shangri-La the Shard, London
London’s first elevated luxury hotel occupies levels 34 to 52 of the iconic Renzo Piano designed building, The Shard. The five-star property offers 202 rooms and suites, all with unparalleled views, three signature dining and drinks venues, river-facing event rooms as well as an infinity pool and a 24-hour gym on level 52.
In the main areas of the hotel, the designers have adopted a contemporary approach to present the sumptuous Oriental motifs, while colours, textures, and materials are thoughtfully balanced with the cityscape that unfolds at every turn.
Photos Atlantis The Royal, Marina Bay Sands, J Hotel Shanghai Tower, Rosewood Bangkok & Shangri-La The Shard
