On Freshome, we've seen many hotel projects focused on offering a striking first impression. The importance of entrance lobbies is growing, as social encounters become more and more dependent on this particular hotel area. With the new business traveling trend, hotel lobbies should provide a multi-use space for casual as well as formal talks, working on laptops, plugging in various devices. This means a simple sofa-coffee table arrangement won't cut it. Creative space segmentation is necessary, providing both intimate and social zones, as well as furniture delivering comfort and functionality. More extravagant entrance features in today's emerging hotel market include large green walls, indoor waterfalls, large chandeliers and multimedia stations.

#10-Ripleys Believe it or Not Museum (Ontario, Canada) The Believe it or Not franchise showcases curiosities in a number of locations, however, the design of the museum at Niagara Falls Ontario deserves to make the exhibition itself.The building represents an upended skyscraper on its side that has taken some of the road with it, as a taxi floats inexplicably and pedestrians and construction workers cling on.

In the last year of his life, fashion designer Oscar de la Renta worked on one of his passion projects — a hotel he helped develop in his native Dominican Republic called Tortuga Bay. Originally opened in 2006, and part of a larger Punta Cana resort, the 13 oceanfront villas offer guests airy open spaces, incredible views of the sea, and impeccable service. De la Renta oversaw a redesign of the villas just this year, and they reopened to the public three weeks ago. We found rates for about $580 per night with a three-night minimum stay for the smaller units in December, but most go for $905 and $1,030, plus tax. If you're considering a visit — or just need a Hump Day mental vacation — here's a look at the redesigned rooms, which stand in tribute to the late designer…