The world of The White Lotus has captivated viewers, with seductive luxury hotels where the design is just as intriguing as the guests. The spellbinding settings are as much a part of its success as the intricately layered storytelling. The hotels are a character in their own right.

If your design eye likes to travel, Australia has its own wildly beautiful designer hotels that bring a cinematic energy to your stay. Here are our three picks for a designer holiday.

Jackalope, Mornington Peninsula

Set among the rolling vineyards of the Mornington Peninsula, Jackalope is an art-led retreat designed by Carr Architecture.
Black basalt, kinetic sculpture and atmospheric lighting make this a departure from coastal lightness. Instead step into a setting that is dark, sculptural, and daringly avant-garde.

Jackalope encompasses a 143-year-old homestead and winery with a 46-room hotel that has been lauded as Australia’s best. It’s notable for its fusion of art, with narrative storytelling running through the entire property.

Image: Jackalope. Top Image: ‘Jackalope’ by Emily Floyd.

The hero piece is the seven-metre-high sculpture ‘Jackalope’ at the entrance, by Melbourne-based artist Emily Floyd. The jackalope – a mythical creature described as a jackrabbit with antelope horns – comes from North American folklore and represents the dramatic, almost surreal, aesthetic of the property. The kind of White Lotus setting where no one is quite what they seem.

Halcyon House, Cabarita Beach

Originally a 1960s surf motel, Halcyon House was transformed into an uber-stylish boutique destination by Anna Spiro Design. Think bespoke textiles, bold blue-and-white palettes, vintage furniture and a whole lot of charm. It’s playful, layered, and is a masterclass in pattern. The incomparable setting of striped sun loungers and Cabarita beach’s aquamarine waters makes it the perfect luxe getaway for a designer intrigue.

Anna Spiro, the creative force behind Halcyon House, has become one of Australia’s most beloved designers, and brought the house down when she spoke at the International Seminar Series at Decor + Design.

The Calile Hotel, Brisbane

With blush marble, brushed brass and palm-lined walkways, Brisbane’s The Calile has become internationally renowned for its effortless, curated luxury. Designed by architects Richards & Spence, every inch of the hotel is photo-ready and yet intentionally understated, blending cool restraint with Queensland’s sunny ease. With mid-century lines combining with poolside aperitivos, it’s the perfect Brisbane locale for quietly curated drama.

Image: Calile Hotel

Whether you’re after miami-style glamour, coastal charm or brooding architecture, these designer Australian hotels are sure to give your holiday the design it deserves.Just maybe don’t get too involved with the other guests!

See some of Australia’s leading designers talk at the 2025 International Seminar Series at Decor + Design, 16 – 18 July in Melbourne. Over 200 exhibitors will also be showcasing their latest collection of hotel-ready furniture and home accessories.

Register now to visit – entry is free but limited to design and furniture trade visitors.