2010 won't come fast enough. Capella Hotels and Resorts is planning a top-tier resort for Niseko (boasting some of the world's finest powder- blown straight from Siberia), and it's going to knock our socks off. The famed architect Tadao Ando is going to work his magic in designing the luxury resort set on 32 acres adjacent to Annupuri-Niseko Mountain. Recipient of every major architecture award in the world (including the Prizker), Ando is renowned for his creative use of natural light and forms that follow the natural contour of the landscape. The resort will highlight the natural beauty of Niseko's incredible setting. What else would we expect from the posh, new Capella brand, led by legendary hotelier Horst Schulze (long-time president at Ritz-Carlton)? Capella is all about personalized luxury, and the resort promises an incredible wellness center and Auriga Spa, along with year-round recreational opportunities. A total of 9 Capella hotels worldwide have been announced; Schloss Velden, a Capella Hotel, in Austria, and Capella Castlemartyr, located in Cork, Ireland, were the first Capella resorts when they opened in 2007.

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