Anyone who's been to Spain in the last few years can attest to the outpouring of creative energy there. (The dramatic new Terminal 4 at Madrid's Barajas Airport is just one example.) The buzz peaks at this 342-room hotel that's 20 minutes by car from downtown Madrid. Nineteen architectural and design firms representing 13 nationalities were involved in the construction and each of the 12 guestroom floors; each bears the imprint of a single cutting-edge designer. Norman Foster did the second floor, Seville-based Victorio & Lucchino did the fifth; and Jean Nouvel, the twelfth. The ground floor's Marmo Bar features a single, 27-foot-long slab of marble, while the top floor has a pool, gym, sauna and the Sky Night bar (also designed by Nouvel). To get a flavor for the different styles, guests are encouraged to change floors every night.

For more information: Hotel Puerta America