Architectural Gems of Zakarpattia: TOP-10 Hotels Shaping the Future of Ukrainian Design and Construction in 2025

Introduction: The New Renaissance of Hospitality Architecture in Zakarpattia

Zakarpattia is experiencing a genuine tourism boom, transforming it into a key domestic tourism destination in Ukraine. This surge is confirmed by impressive statistics: in 2024, the tourist tax reached a record 23.1 million UAH, and in the first seven months of 2025, growth amounted to 39%.

The rapid growth in demand makes Zakarpattia attractive to investors, stimulating the construction of new hotel complexes that attract an even more demanding audience with their quality. This creates a positive cycle: high-quality offerings stimulate demand, while tourism revenues finance further development. Zakarpattia is evolving from a simple tourism region to a sophisticated hospitality market where architecture and design become key competitive advantages.

Contemporary architecture in Zakarpattia is moving away from simple copying of traditional forms and reinterpreting them, creating unique conceptual projects. Key trends in hotel design include:

1. Eco-integration: Architecture harmoniously integrates into the natural landscape
2. Contemporary vernacular: Reinterpretation of local craft traditions such as blacksmithing and woodworking in modern design
3. Well-being Design: Designing spaces focused on health and emotional restoration, with emphasis on SPA zones and thermal complexes

Visionary projects, such as the “Carpaty” hotel concept by MAKHNO Studio, demonstrate this movement – bold, organic and deeply Ukrainian architecture that connects past and future.

Rating of Architectural Oases: Distinguished Hotels of Zakarpattia

A comparative table was created for visual comparison of key objects in our ranking, allowing quick assessment of their unique features and achievements. This structure provides basic understanding that will help deeper evaluate the nuances of each project in subsequent detailed reviews.

Table: Comparative table of TOP-8 Zakarpattia hotels by architectural and construction criteria

#1 – HAY Boutique Hotel & SPA, Polyanytsia (Bukovel)

Included as a benchmark of contemporary design for the entire Carpathian region

Architectural Profile

HAY Boutique Hotel & SPA, designed by Kyiv-based YOD Group studio, is not just a hotel but a manifesto of a new approach in Ukrainian hospitality architecture. The project is based on the concept of “Terroir Design,” where design, like wine, “grows” from the locality’s characteristics, absorbing its nature, history, and cultural codes. The hotel’s name comes from the English word “Hay,” and the entire concept is permeated with the theme of 88 species of local Carpathian herbs found in herbariums, teas, aromas, and decorative elements.

The building’s exterior exemplifies organic landscape integration. The hotel seems to grow from the mountain slope, resembling a rock with cascades of living greenery. Local plants are planted on the facade, terraces, and balconies – grasses, strawberries, blackberries, with their placement imitating natural growth. Thermally modified Thermory Drift spruce is used for cladding, giving the facade the appearance of aged, weathered wood that has been part of this landscape for centuries.

The interior continues the exterior’s philosophy, offering a restrained palette and rich, tactile textures. Traditional Carpathian crafts are deeply reinterpreted here. Massive oak table tops in rooms are mounted on cast iron anvil-shaped bases, with integrated luminaires providing soft light through pressed hay lampshades. Metal brackets securing wooden column panels and coat hooks shaped like forged nails directly reference local blacksmithing.

Construction and Engineering Achievements

The hotel’s most impressive engineering solution is the unique steel pool located on the sixth floor. Its construction allows for overflow into open space, where the end wall is made of glass, opening panoramic mountain views. However, the main innovation is the round portholes built into the pool bottom, opening into the fifth-floor corridor ceiling, creating a surreal aquarium effect where hotel guests swim instead of sea creatures.

The project received unprecedented international recognition, winning victories and high honors at the most prestigious world competitions, including Architecture MasterPrize (Winner, 2023), LIV Design Awards (Winner, 2023), I-Design Awards (Silver, 2023), and inclusion in the Dezeen Awards 2023 longlist.

Conceptual Design by Mehbud for HAY Boutique Hotel & SPA

To further enhance the unique architectural identity of HAY Boutique Hotel & SPA, “Mehbud” factory proposes conceptual solutions that harmoniously complement the “Terroir Design” philosophy. The building facade can be enriched with perforated cassettes “Mehbud” with a custom pattern interpreting the geometric symbol “Alatyr.” This ancient amulet is already present in furniture upholstery in the restaurant, and its appearance on the facade would create an amazing play of light and shadow, adding another layer of contemporary interpretation of Ukrainian heritage. For exterior terraces and canopies, metal slatted ceilings “Mehbud” would be perfect. Their clear geometry would create a visual rhyme with wooden decoration, emphasize the architecture’s clean lines, and ensure durability and resistance to harsh mountain conditions.

#2 – Sanatorium-Resort Complex “Derenivsʹka Kupilʹ”, Nyzhne Solotvyno

Architectural Profile

“Derenivsʹka Kupilʹ” is a project of different scale and philosophy. This is not just a hotel but a full-fledged resort destination where contemporary European architecture serves as an elegant frame for the main exhibit – unique nature and a vast arboretum. The complex’s architectural ensemble consists of several key objects: the four-star “Iris” hotel with 130 rooms and an Apartment-hotel with 44 rooms.

The “Iris” hotel architecture embodies contemporary European minimalism principles: clean lines, laconic details, and restrained elegance. Panoramic windows are the main design element, erasing the boundary between interior and exterior, allowing arboretum landscapes to become an integral part of the space.

Construction and Engineering Achievements

The main achievement of “Derenivsʹka Kupilʹ” is creating a complete resort city from scratch. The complex’s infrastructure is impressive in its comprehensiveness: it includes its own mineral water bottling plant, powerful SPA complex “Silver Therms” with thermal pools, pump room, several restaurants, art gallery, and even its own chapel.

The high project level is confirmed by the European Resort Association certificate and first place in the sanatorium-health complex ranking according to Ukrainian Business Award.

Conceptual Design by Mehbud for Derenivsʹka Kupil

For modernization and stylistic unification of the “Derenivsʹka Kupilʹ” architectural ensemble, “Mehbud” products offer refined and functional solutions. Apartment-hotel facades can be updated using vertical slats “Brus” with polymer coating imitating wood texture. Their clear geometry and warm appearance will create a contemporary but harmonious image that perfectly combines with the surrounding park. For zoning the large and diverse complex territory, as well as for enclosing private zones, “Rancho” or “Blinds” fences are perfect. They provide the necessary level of privacy without creating a feeling of enclosed space and emphasize the premium European style of the resort.

#3 – Eco-resort “IZKI”, Izky

Architectural Profile

Eco-resort “IZKI” is a bright example of architecture based on principles of deep authenticity and harmony with nature. The resort’s concept is creating a self-sufficient ecosystem where every element, from construction materials to restaurant food, corresponds to principles of ecology and sustainable development.

The unique architectural and construction feature of the resort is the use of massive wooden logs (round timber) with diameters of 60-70 centimeters for cottage construction. This is not decorative imitation but a complex, authentic technology requiring extraordinary craftsmanship.

Construction and Engineering Achievements

“IZKI” demonstrates that the concept of “eco” can be not a marketing move but a fundamental business principle. The resort functions as a complete ecosystem including its own farm growing organic products and a cheese factory providing fresh products to restaurants.

The choice in favor of complex and expensive technologies, such as construction from massive logs and creating a self-sufficient farm, is a conscious investment in authenticity that creates a unique value proposition impossible to easily copy.

Conceptual Design by Mehbud for Eco-resort “IZKI”

In the architectural ensemble of “IZKI,” where massive, organic forms of wooden log houses dominate, “Mehbud” products can create an expressive and functional contrast. For arranging canopies over restaurant terraces and recreation areas, slatted ceiling is perfect. Its strict, rhythmic geometry will emphasize the uniqueness of log walls, adding a contemporary accent. For territory fencing, “Horizont” fences made of metal with high-quality polymer coating “under wood” can be used. Such a solution will provide exceptional durability and weather resistance, harmoniously complementing the natural landscape and requiring no constant care, unlike natural wood.

#4 – Resort “Voevodyno”, Turya Pasika

Architectural Profile

Resort “Voevodyno” is an example of successful development of large territory (17 hectares) and its transformation into a multifunctional family resort with deep personal and historical foundation. This is not just a hotel but an entire world with diverse locations, architectural styles, and activities creating the feeling of a cozy European village scattered in a picturesque valley.

The key element forming the resort’s identity is Schönborn Park – not just a landscape object but a carefully planned cultural-educational space telling guests the history of Zakarpattia from Celtic times to the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

Construction and Engineering Achievements

The project’s greatest achievement is master planning. Developers successfully harmoniously and logically placed functionally different zones on the vast territory: for active recreation, relaxation, accommodation, and cultural enrichment.

Besides commercial success, the resort performs an important social function as one of the largest employers for surrounding villages, making a significant contribution to local community and regional economic development.

Conceptual Design by Mehbud for Resort “Voevodyno”

For such a large-scale and stylistically diverse object as “Voevodyno,” “Mehbud” proposes solutions emphasizing each zone’s uniqueness. For arranging numerous alleys and paths of Schönborn Park, elegant metal fences of classic design with forged elements can be used, enhancing its historical stylization and old manor atmosphere. Meanwhile, facades of new cottages or service buildings can be decorated with contemporary metal siding “Ship Board” with coating imitating wood. This will ensure durability, minimalist appearance, and harmonious integration into natural surroundings without requiring complex maintenance.

#5 – Hotel Complex “Zolota Hora”, Barvinok

Architectural Profile

Hotel complex “Zolota Hora” implements the popular ranch hotel concept, offering guests recreation on a large, well-maintained territory with a countryside manor atmosphere. The architectural style combines European service with retro and classic elements.

The restaurant complex, made of massive wooden logs in traditional hunting and folk style, serves as a contrasting element. Its interior is dominated by natural materials – stone, wood, clay products, creating a feeling of warmth and authenticity.

Construction and Engineering Achievements

“Zolota Hora” is an example of creating comprehensive infrastructure for recreation and health improvement. Five thermal pools, private fishing ponds, indoor tennis court, log saunas, and wine tasting cellar operate on the complex territory.

Special attention in the project is paid to landscape design. Thoughtfully designed landscape compositions decorating the spacious territory are an important part of the architectural ensemble.

Conceptual Design by Mehbud for “Zolota Hora””

The ranch hotel style dictates the choice of appropriate architectural solutions. For enclosing the complex’s large territory, “Rancho” fence from “Mehbud” is perfect, completely corresponding to the establishment’s name and concept, creating an authentic appearance of an American countryside manor. For decorating new building facades or modernizing existing ones, “Mehbud” facade panels can be used. Thanks to a wide choice of textures, they can imitate natural stone or wood, allowing preservation of buildings’ authentic appearance while significantly increasing their durability, energy efficiency, and resistance to external influences.

#6 – Grand Hotel “Pylypetsʹ”, Pylypets

Architectural Profile

Opened in 2012, Grand Hotel “Pylypets” is one of the quality hospitality market pioneers in the Ukrainian Carpathians. It became one of the first representatives of 4-star service in the region, offering guests a classic European-style ski hotel.

The project’s architecture and design distinguished themselves with “unsurpassed elegance” at opening, highly appreciated by experts and the market. Stylistically, the project is an example of architecture that became the foundation for further hotel business development in Zakarpattia.

Construction and Engineering Achievements

Already in its opening year, the hotel won prestigious awards, including recognition as “Best hotel complex of Zakarpattia – 2012.” These distinctions testify to high construction standards, engineering solutions, and service embedded in the project.

Grand Hotel “Pylypets” influence on the market is hard to overestimate, becoming a model for many subsequent projects in the region.

Conceptual Design by Mehbud for Grand Hotel “Pylypets”

For a hotel with such history as “Pylypets,” it’s important to periodically update to meet contemporary requirements. Within potential renovation framework, “Mehbud” proposes using contemporary ventilated facades. This solution will allow not only dramatically modernizing the building’s external appearance but also significantly improving its thermal insulation characteristics, critically important for a hotel in mountainous terrain and allowing substantial reduction of operational costs. In the interior, replacing outdated ceiling structures with contemporary “Mehbud” metal ceilings in lobby, restaurant, and conference halls will allow easy integration of newest lighting, ventilation, and acoustic systems, giving rooms a new, more technological and elegant appearance.

#7 – UNGVARSKIY Thermal Hotel, Uzhhorod

Architectural Profile

UNGVARSKIY Thermal Hotel is an interesting example of a contemporary urban hotel whose architectural concept is built around a unique natural advantage – access to thermal waters. Its key feature lies in successful integration of a full-fledged SPA center into Uzhhorod’s dense urban infrastructure.

Stylistically, the hotel architecture is functional and contemporary, subordinated to main tasks: ensuring maximum comfort for business travelers and city guests, and creating efficient and attractive space for healing and relaxation.

Construction and Engineering Achievements

The main engineering challenge and achievement of the project is creating a complex system for supplying, preparing, and using thermal water in urban development conditions. This required atypical solutions in engineering network design, filtration systems, and temperature regime maintenance.

Project implementation success is confirmed by its high popularity, with the hotel consistently receiving high ratings on leading booking platforms.

Conceptual Design by Mehbud for UNGVARSKIY”

To enhance visual attractiveness and recognizability of the hotel in urban environment, “Mehbud” proposes radical facade updating using contemporary facade cassettes. Using cassettes in bold, saturated colors or with metallized coating can transform the building into a bright architectural dominant of the district. For creating private and comfortable recreation zones around street thermal pools, blinds fences from “Mehbud” are perfect. Their construction provides excellent ventilation, protects from prying eyes, and creates a cozy, secluded atmosphere for guests.

#8 – Apartel Shayan Eco Resort, Shayan

Architectural Profile

Apartel Shayan Eco Resort successfully combines two extremely relevant trends in the hospitality market: the popular aparthotel format and growing demand for ecological recreation. The complex concept meets contemporary tourists’ demands who seek more independence, space, and closeness to nature than a classic hotel room can offer.

The complex architecture is probably contemporary, with emphasis on using ecological and natural materials. The key feature of apartment planning solutions is the presence of kitchen areas and increased area.

Construction and Engineering Achievements

The project is an example of successful implementation of a flexible business model combining advantages of short-term hotel rental and long-term apartment living. This allows diversifying income sources and ensuring more stable occupancy throughout the year.

High construction quality and successful concept are confirmed by excellent guest reviews, with a 9.3 rating on Booking.com.

Conceptual Design by Mehbud for Apartel Shayan

For an aparthotel where privacy and personal space comfort are important, “Mehbud” proposes effective and aesthetic solutions. For territory zoning and enclosing private terraces or apartment balconies, contemporary “Horizont” or “Rancho” fences can be used. Their laconic design creates a feeling of space and unity with landscape without overloading it. To give the object a more contemporary and technological appearance, metal pergolas made from “Mehbud” slats can be used. Placed over parking spaces or recreation areas, they will create light shade and form a stylish architectural accent.

Architectural Cases: Deep Dive into Flagship Projects

Case 1: HAY Boutique Hotel & SPA – Global Recognition of Ukrainian Design

HAY Boutique Hotel & SPA success goes far beyond commercial attractiveness; this project became a cultural phenomenon that brought contemporary Ukrainian architecture to the world stage. This success is based on deep “Terroir Design” philosophy developed by YOD Group studio.

Constructive solutions are no less innovative. The cascading facade covered with living vegetation is not just decor but an architectural technique making the building a mountain extension. The rooftop pool with portholes became the engineering thought’s apogee, transforming an ordinary corridor into an artwork.

This comprehensive approach received unprecedented international recognition, fundamentally changing international perception of Ukrainian design, demonstrating it as innovative, refined, and culturally rich.

Case 2: Derenivsʹka Kupilʹ – Master Planning and Creating a “Destination”

The “Derenivsʹka Kupilʹ” project is an exemplary case of successful large territory development and complete tourist destination creation. Its analysis shows how a comprehensive approach to master planning creates a holistic and multifaceted visitor experience.

The complex’s architectural strategy is built on contrast: contemporary, minimalist “Iris” hotel design with clean forms and panoramic glazing versus the rich, saturated, and stylistically diverse arboretum. This contrast works for mutual enhancement.

Case 3: Eco-resort IZKI – Authenticity of Construction Technologies

Eco-resort “IZKI” is a unique case demonstrating economic effectiveness of deep, uncompromising authenticity. Its architectural identity is based on an extremely complex and rare technology of constructing cottages from massive logs up to 70 cm in diameter.

This choice is a conscious investment in authenticity that becomes the main competitive advantage. The “eco” concept here is not limited to construction materials alone but permeates all resort operational activities.

Conclusions: The Future of Zakarpattia’s Architectural Landscape

Analysis of leading hotel complexes in Zakarpattia allows identification of key trends that will define the region’s architectural landscape in coming years. First, this is movement toward hyperlocality – departure from general “Carpathian” motifs in favor of deep study and integration of specific locality’s unique cultural and natural codes. Second, this is technological ecology combining traditional natural materials with advanced engineering solutions. Third, this is experience expansion where hotels stop being simply overnight places and transform into comprehensive “destination resorts.”

Looking to the future confirms these trends. New ambitious projects are already being implemented in the region, while large system operators are entering the market, bringing international standards in development and management.

These projects’ success proves that the future of Ukrainian hospitality lies in synergy between bold architectural vision, innovative construction technologies, and use of quality, durable materials. In this context, companies like “Mehbud” factory act not just as manufacturers but as strategic partners, allowing architects to implement the boldest ideas while ensuring high quality, energy efficiency, and aesthetic perfection.