Ferrari Trento Most Admired Hotel Group Award 2026

Rosewood

A Sense of Place sets the pace in luxury hospitality

With 43 hotels across 24 countries and a further 15 properties in development, Rosewood continues to set the pace in luxury hospitality. The Hong Kong-based group has built its reputation on its distinctive 'A Sense of Place' philosophy, with each property designed to reflect the history, culture and character of its destination rather than conforming to a standardised brand template.

The approach is evident across the portfolio. Rosewood London, which opened in 2013, occupies a Grade II-listed Edwardian Belle Époque building dating from 1914. Original architectural features, including its ornate Baroque façade, domed entrance framed by Corinthian columns and dramatic seven-storey Pavonazzo marble staircase, have been carefully preserved, creating a hotel that feels part of its surroundings.

At the other end of the spectrum sits Rosewood Hong Kong, which opened in 2019. The group's flagship urban property has been crowned No.1 in The World's 50 Best Hotels list for the second consecutive year. Rising above Victoria Harbour in a striking glass-and-steel tower, the property combines contemporary architecture with highly personalised service. Despite its scale, with 413 rooms and suites, Rosewood Hong Kong maintains an intimate feel, supported by an extensive team that includes nearly 500 staff working across its food and beverage operations alone.

Much of the brand's evolution can be attributed to Sonia Cheng, who was appointed CEO in 2011 while still in her early 30s. At the helm of the family business, Cheng has championed greater emphasis on hyper-local design, cultural authenticity and immersive guest experiences. Through the Rosewood Curators programme, she enlisted tastemakers including Iris Apfel and Nina Garcia to help shape property designs by sharing what they love about their locations. Cheng's vision has shaped a new generation of properties, spanning both sensitive restorations and ambitious new builds, helping to distinguish Rosewood in an increasingly competitive luxury hotel market.

As the winner of the Ferrari Trento Most Admired Hotel Group Award, Rosewood's back-to-back success signals more than rapid expansion. With seven properties listed across The 50 Best Hotels 2026 1-50 and extended 51-100 list, Rosewood reflects a brand that has successfully combined thoughtful design and exceptional service.