25 Top Designers’ Local Hotel Recs

Whether you’re looking for a spot to host the fam during the holidays or sneak in a weekend staycay, having a cheat sheet of hometown hotels in your arsenal is an absolute MUST. And because no one really wants to put up the in-laws at anything drab, the digs on your list better be smashing. To help cue up a stunning list, we asked some of our favorite interior designers to share the hotels that they recommend to visiting friends. From posh, little under-the-radar boutiques in Greenwich to designer-done affairs in San Francisco, these rockin’ hotels are guaranteed to dazzle both you and your crew. The only thing left to do? Room service, please!

Austin & Dallas

“Hotel Saint Cecilia is quintessential Austin, from the shady grounds to the eccentrically decorated suites. Their private lounge and pool are reserved for guests only, and are the perfect place to have a pre-dinner cocktail.”— Sarah Wittenbraker

“South Congress Hotel or Hotel Ella.” — Shannon Eddings

“The Four Seasons, Houston.” — Paloma Contreras

Chicago

“One of my best friends is an incredible travel advisor so I know I can count on wherever she stays as being the most noteworthy hotel of the moment. As of late, it’s The Hoxton Chicago in West Loop.” — Sarah Vaile

“The Langham Chicago is the ultimate luxury experience—great staff, the only 5-star spa in Chicago, nice views, and a good location—what more could you ask for?” — Summer Thornton

“The Peninsula Chicago.” — Shelley Johnstone

Los Angeles

“The Firehouse Hotel, in the Arts District.” – Sally Breer from ETC.etera

“The NoMad is currently one of our favorites. It is a beautifully designed building in the heart of Downtown and mimics the original Italianate NoMad Hotel in New York City.” – Studio Life/Style

“The Sunset Tower Hotel.” – Pierce and Ward

“I still think the Beverly Hills Hotel gives the most L.A./Hollywood bang for your buck. There is always the old school aspect to it, plus such rando star sightings that it’s sort of fun for an out-of-towner.”  – Mary McDonald

Nashville

“Noelle Nashville, a historic Art Deco hotel that was recently reimagined by a Nashville favorite architect Nick Dryden. So many local artisans contributed to the hotel—it truly expresses Nashville in every way!” — Rachel Halvorson

“The Thompson Nashville.” — Chad James

“The Omni Nashville or the new Westin Nashville—both are right downtown.” — Sarah Bartholomew

New Orleans

“Soniat House. It’s an authentic New Orleans experience.” — Ware Porter

“Windsor Court.” — Shaun Smith

New York

“The Surrey, so my friends can invite me to the gorgeous private rooftop bar for a drink.” — Courtney Coleman from Brockschmidt & Coleman

“Freehand New York has great rooms and amazing pricing!” — Tilton Fenwick

“Crosby Street Hotel because of the décor by Kit Kemp.” — Lindsey Lane

“The Marlton Hotel NYC in the West Village is great if you don’t mind micro-tiny rooms.” — Celerie Kemble

“The Greenwich Hotel in Tribeca is gorgeous.” — Nick Olsen

Raleigh & Charlotte

“The Umstead Hotel and Spa! Conceived and built with the muses of art and nature, it is designed to restore and rejuvenate. My husband and I even book a room occasionally for an easy staycation!” — MA Allen

“Duke Mansion. It’s in the most beautiful neighborhood in Charlotte.” —Barrie Benson

San Francisco

“The recently-opened Proper Hotel, designed by Kelly Wearstler. Great vibe, great art, and great cocktails.” — Eche Martinez

“Hotel Kabuki. Great location, reasonably priced and a unique experience.” —Katie Martinez

“Hotel Drisco in Presidio Heights is quiet and small. It’s been closed for renovations, but opened again recently.” — Beth Martin

Related: Designers’ Favorite Hotels for a Getaway >>

Lead photo by Aaron Haxton