W Sardinia–Poltu Quatu, Italy

Having worked their magic on the vivacious W Rome, Interior Design Hall of Fame members and firm cofounders Will Meyer and Gray Davis have reprised the brand collaboration, this time in coastal Sardinia, specifically Poltu Quatu, which translates to hidden port in the local dialect. Getting there is a trip—and so is a stay at the 154-key hotel. Comprising nearly 160,000 square feet, the complex of whitewashed structures cascades along a cliff, overlooking the Marina dell’Orso and La Maddalena Archipelago, with direct access to the Mediterranean Sea. The site led to such movement-oriented schemes as waves over underwater scenes, shifting daylight playing off reflective surfaces, and sinuous architectural arches. Further helping tie property to place is the palette of ceramics, sun-washed neutrals, and marine-blue pops, which mix with seashore-inspired relics, locally sourced accessories, and commissioned artwork. In the latter camp is a mural of the Phoenician goddess Tanit, which emblazons a wall in the restaurant bearing her name. Custom ceramic headboards and wallcoverings inspired by the island’s ancient Nuragic civilization outfit guest rooms. The lobby’s sweeping curvatures allude to area caves and grottos said to be inhabited by Janas, the benevolent fairies from Sardinian folklore that protect sailors.