When Historic Buildings Become Beautiful Hotels

Renowned as one of the best preserved examples of ancient Ming Dynasty architecture, the Summer Palace has long been considered one of the loveliest spots in China and hosted many of China’s most infamous Emperors and Empresses, including the extravagant Empress Dowager Cixi. True to the brand’s commitment to conservation and authenticity, the Aman at the Summer Palace sits a few steps from the East Gate of the iconic palace grounds and is housed within dwellings once used by guests awaiting an audience with the Empress.

Today guests are greeted at The Liberty with a warm welcome and a glass of bubbly at check-in, but this wasn’t always the case as The Liberty was once Boston’s infamous Charles Street Jail. Some of the historic “guests” to have frequented this storied property include Malcolm X and Sacco and Vanzetti. History lovers and architecture aficionados alike will appreciate the fact that much of the historic architecture of this heritage building has remained including the famed 90-foot lobby rotunda and old jail bars which line the windows at the locally-adored restaurant, CLINK.

Immerse yourself in Cusco’s rich history with a stay at Belmond Hotel Monasterio. Located moments from Plaza de Armas, this cherished landmark was once a monastery that had been at the heart of the city for centuries. A beautifully preserved example of Incan design, the central courtyard remains virtually unchanged and serves as an inspiring spot to enjoy tea or take in Peru’s outstanding scenery. After taking on Machu Picchu, retreat back to spacious accommodations paired perfectly with modern amenities and quirky architectural details from the hotel’s monastic past.

Your royal experience begins the moment you arrive at this remarkable 800-year-old castle. As the former home of the Guinness family and the oldest castle in Ireland, Ashford Castle is as exceptional as they come. The castle offers classic Irish activities such as falconry, full Irish breakfasts in the morning and over 20 miles of emerald green countryside to explore. Pair that with an extensive renovation that saw the local community come together to restore one of Ireland’s greatest masterpieces and you’ve got a story that’s worthy of becoming a fairytale.

While we often get caught up in the new and noteworthy, sometimes it takes a restored 19^th-century mansion to remind us that the past certainly has opulence worth reviving. Sant Francesc Hotel in Palma de Mallorca provides old-world charm married perfectly with Neoclassical details (including an authentic watch tower) and contemporary comforts that have made it one of Mallorca’s finest accommodations.

When it comes to an authentic Milanese experience, there are few better venues than a former perfume factory. Conveniently, Magna Pars Suites has also been transformed into an all-suite modern hotel that embodies Milan’s enviable style. Staying true to its perfumery roots, each suite is themed after one of the 39 essences and guests are invited to choose the scent that appeals to them for a personalized experience. Feeling particularly adventurous? Magna Pars also houses a perfume laboratory where you can create your own essence as a souvenir you won’t soon forget

Long before there was the Golden Gate Bridge, Horseshoe Cove became home to Fort Baker, a historic military base that was active until the mid ‘90s. Today, this historic locale is home to Cavallo Point, a heritage lodge that boasts postcard views of the San Francisco landmark and a location that is perfect for visits into the city or Napa and Sonoma wine country. As part of a national park and San Francisco’s history, the lodge gives the historic Fort Baker a new lease on life with one of the Bay Area’s top restaurants, as well as award-winning sustainability.

Prior to entering The Ned, you might have never thought a former bank would be the perfect base to build a design hotel worthy of the most discerning guest. Luckily, the founders of Soho House & Co and Sydell Group had a vision after touring the disused Midland Bank and have since turned it into The Ned—a gentlemanly boutique hotel that doesn’t shy away from its banking heritage. Original, double height windows cast natural light throughout the property, and the formidable entrance to the vault is a must-see feature for movie buffs since the 25-tonne door was used as inspiration for the vault in the 1964 James Bond film, Goldfinger.