Capella Singapore

Two whitewashed colonial bungalows that once housed British military families now serve as the lobby and living room of this Forbes Five Star resort on Sentosa Island. The contrast is the whole point: swirled marble, dark walnut, and a private art collection inside buildings that spent their early life as barracks. The curved contemporary wing alongside them adds open-air ease. It's the kind of hotel where "complimentary refreshments in the guest lounge" is just how the afternoon goes.

One honor, in evidence: