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From reimagined icons to restored retreats, these highly anticipated hotels embody Hotels.com’s 2026 Salvaged Stays trend. Housed in historic buildings, these properties combine original character and heritage details with elevated amenities, creating truly exceptional stays.
Melanie Fish, head of Expedia Group brands public relations: “Hotels.com’s Hotels of the Year trend, Salvaged Stays, was born out of a rigorous, global analysis. We looked at internal traveler data to identify which properties are seeing the biggest spikes in interest year-over-year, and then we did research into what the hottest new hotels opening have in common.
Restored landmark buildings, architectural relics getting a second life — this blend of original character with modern, intentional design lets travelers step into a story. I lived the Salvaged Stays trend in 2025 — some of my most memorable stays last year were in a former strip club, jail, post office and palace. You don’t want to feel like you could be just anywhere when you’re inside a hotel room. Travelers are seeking out Salvaged Stays because they provide a sense of place and history that makes a trip that much more memorable.”
2026 Hotels of the Year
Rosemead House: (Opened October 2025) Originally built in 1906 as a family residence, this 28-room boutique hotel on Vancouver Island blends architectural heritage with contemporary comfort.
Hotel Gotham Newcastle: (Opened September 2025) Set within a Grade II–listed former fire station, police station, and magistrates’ court, Hotel Gotham transforms a 1930s landmark into a bold, Art Deco–infused escape.
HYLL Hotel: (Opened September 2025) Set in a 14th-century manor in North Cotswolds, HYLL is a lovingly restored country house designed for slowing down.
Vista Ostuni: (Opened July 2025) This luxury hotel located in the “White City” of Ostuni has been transformed into a historic 14th-century palazzo.
The Hoxton Edinburgh: (Opened June 2025) The new Hoxton is housed within a beautifully restored stretch of historic townhouses on Grosvenor Street.
Rosewood Amsterdam: (Opened June 2025) Set within the former Palace of Justice along Amsterdam’s iconic canals, Rosewood Amsterdam reimagines a historic landmark.
Waldorf Astoria New York: (Reopened June 2025) After a meticulous restoration, the legendary Waldorf Astoria New York recently reopened with its iconic Art Deco elegance.
Hotel Willa: (Opened May 2025) Once a 1940s motel, Hotel Willa in Taos, New Mexico, is a boutique property that celebrates Southwestern heritage.
Patina Osaka: (Opened May 2025) Patina Osaka transforms a former office building into a sleek design forward retreat.
Populus Seattle: (Opened May 2025) Housed within the historic 1907 Westland Building, Populus transforms a former railway warehouse into Seattle’s first carbon-positive hotel.
2026 Openings to Watch
Andaz Lisbon: Opening January 2026 in a building that once housed residences and financial institutions.
The Imperial Kyoto: Once the site of a historic Kyoto performing arts theater, the hotel integrates the theater’s facade and structure into its design. Opens March 2026.
The Lake Como EDITION: Housed in a 19th-century palazzo, this March 2026 opening pairs historic architecture with EDITION’s signature contemporary aesthetic.
Recess Hotel & Club: Restoring Savannah’s historic Manger Building, this property will debut as a lifestyle hotel and clubhouse. Opening early 2026.
Waldorf Astoria London Admiralty Arch: Set to open in Spring 2026, Waldorf Astoria London transforms the iconic Admiralty Arch into a luxury hotel.
Airelles Venice (Giudecca): Opening April 2026, this property reimagines Venetian palazzos into a lavish retreat.
Zannier Hotels Île de Bendor: Opening in May 2026, this French Riviera gem revives a storied private island retreat.
Fairmont New Orleans: Set on the site of a historic hotel, the Fairmont is slated for a June 2026 opening.
The Standard Lisbon: Set in a former Navy hospital, this 2026 opening brings The Standard to Portugal.
Cambridge House, Auberge Collection: This 18th-century Georgian mansion and Grade I-listed Palladian-style townhouse in Mayfair will debut as a luxury hotel and private club in 2026.
