Luxury Travel | The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2026
If you’ve ever stayed somewhere truly spectacular, there’s a chance Jean-Michel Gathy designed it. Four hotels by the Belgian-born architect and his studio, Denniston, have been recognised in The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2026 rankings.
Here are five things to know.
1. Four Seasons Bangkok is No. 3 in the world
Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River stretches along 200 metres of riverfront as a series of cascading buildings, green courtyards, terraces and water features. High ceilings and glass walls flood it with daylight, giving this city hotel the feel of a resort.
2. Aman Nai Lert Bangkok is built around a 100-year-old tree
Making its debut on the list at No. 48, Aman Nai Lert sits in the seven-acre Nai Lert Park. A century-old Sompong tree forms the living centrepiece, with an elliptical opening so guests can see it as they move through the hotel. Thai craftsmanship, local artworks and antiques connect it to the site’s history.
3. Janu Tokyo blends calm and energy
At No. 52 on the extended list, Janu Tokyo in Azabudai Hills pairs calm guest rooms with hand-applied sakan plaster and earthy tones, alongside lively, colourful dining spaces and expansive wellness facilities.
4. Aman New York has a fireplace in every suite
Ranked No. 87 on the extended list, Aman New York is set in the historic Crown Building on Fifth Avenue. Its Beaux-Arts grandeur is softened with muted colours and natural woods, and every suite has a working fireplace high above Manhattan.
5. A four-decade career
Gathy founded Denniston in 1983 and has lived in Asia since 1981. This year he also received the Outstanding Achievement Award at Global Hospitality Talk in Bangkok. His approach is to let each brand and location shape the design, which is why no two of his hotels feel the same.
The hotels
Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River (No. 3)
Aman Nai Lert Bangkok (No. 48)
Janu Tokyo (No. 52, extended list)
Aman New York (No. 87, extended list)