For each of us, travel means something different; for many it is simply time in new surroundings, or experiencing new cultures, for others it is about escape – sometimes from all forms of civilisation.

There is an increasing number of discerning travelers seeking design-oriented holidays, which has led to the emergence of designer travel companies that bring together a selection of boutique hotels and holiday destinations.

New Australian website, Ultimate Hides features a hand-picked collection of holiday properties from across the globe, encapsulating contemporary architectural design, sustainability, privacy and inspirational surrounds while acknowledging the architects and designers.

Director and co-founder Jacqueline Wagar says she and her partner, both from design backgrounds, had become frustrated with having to sift through reams of web pages in their search for design-oriented accommodation.

 “I felt there was a niche audience within the design industry both in Australia and overseas, and also for corporates who might wish to take their clients somewhere a little different,” Wagar says.

“The site also gives credit to the architects, designers and artists involved in the creation of each property, so, if you have a design ‘hero’ there’s the possibility of experiencing their work first-hand. The collection includes small self contained properties as well as larger hotels and resorts, so caters for all budgets.”

She says a well-designed space can go a long way in ensuring a relaxing, rejuvenating and inspiring holiday.

“I’m a great believer that the design of a space can influence your mood,” Wagar says.

Travel group, Mr and Mrs Smith follows a similar philosophy and in November, launched its portfolio of boutique and luxury Asian hotel accommodation which the company says will grow to 200 listings by the close of 2010.

The Mr and Mrs Smith website provides travelers with a range of localised offerings and is continuously updated with regional and global content.  

Worldwide travel company Design Hotels also provides holidaymakers with a resource for international boutique and designer hotels with an emphasis on design accommodation offering high-calibre service.

While Australia’s Contemporary Hotels focuses its attention on packages and promotions, ‘contemporary hotels’, beach houses and villas for those seeking stylish accommodation within Australia.

Ultimate Hides
ultimatehides.com

Mr. and Mrs. Smith
mrandmrssmith.com

Design Hotels
designhotels.com

Contemporary Hotels
contemporaryhotels.com.au

Above: Exterior Kohara Lodge – New Zealand – (image courtesy of Ultimate Hides)