The LUMA Hotel

While the thought of Borneo conjures up images of beaches and rainforests, the world’s third-largest island has some sizeable cities, too. Kota Kinabalu, part of Malaysian Borneo, is one of them, and the recently opened Luma Hotel is among the top hotels in town. Located in a recycled office building in the city center, the hotel, named after the native Sama-Bajau word for “home,” has a modern, distinctly urban feel. But the sleek interiors are warmed up by abundant greenery, colorful modular furniture, and floors inlaid with white stone mosaics.

While the ground level’s interior design takes inspiration from the region’s lush landscapes and cultural traditions — the lobby features a striking spiral staircase made of Sabahan wood, and a soundtrack put together by local musicians plays in the background — guest rooms are simpler. The most standard option is compact and minimalist with curving wood-paneled walls, an earthy color palette, oak flooring, raffia headboards, and Japanese-style etched glass doors opening to bathrooms lined in polished deep-green tile. Larger rooms have writing desks and separate seating areas. Amenities include a fitness center, a stylish all-day coffee shop supported by a local roastery, and an elegant bar and Asian fusion restaurant with terrace seating.