Hormuz Island, Iran
Majara Hotel
Multihued dome outpost
Clusters of brightly painted sandbag domes form an open, gateless village that spills across the coast toward the Persian Gulf.
What it’s good at
Gold
A kaleidoscopic village of two hundred superadobe domes finished in vibrant hues echoing Hormuz Island mineral soils.
Silver
Constructed with sandbags dredged from local docks, fostering community craft training and unhindered Persian Gulf access.
Listed
Stepped pathways, open courtyards, and a beachfront café dome create communal meeting points across the grounds.
Outside the door
Along Hormuz Island's coastal ring road, set between colorful mineral hills and the Persian Gulf shore.
What they say
Also in Wallpaper*.
This colourful complex provides sustainable accommodation for tourists who wish to visit the unique landscape of Hormuz Island.
The rooms
Interconnected dome suites feature curved earth walls washed in monochrome yellow, red, or blue, paired with minimalist custom furniture.
At the table
A dedicated beachfront dome café serves southern Iranian dishes alongside coffee, opening directly onto open courtyards and sea breezes.
How it began
Tehran studio ZAV Architects shaped the village using stacked sandbags dredged from the island dock, training local workers during construction.
Somewhere apart
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Dirt tracks wind past ochre cliffs and mineral beaches, leading from the quiet compound toward Rainbow Valley and coastal caves.
The app
This is one hotel. The app has every one we rate.
Our shorthand
What makes a hotel special, how well they pull it off, and what it feels like outside the door.
How well they pull it off
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
Outside the door
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.