Announced last week in Singapore, AHEAD Asia aims to celebrate the best new hotels in Asia. The winners were chosen based on guest experiences, aesthetic excellence and commercial viability.

The event is part of eight regional award ceremonies that are set to take place around the globe between 2017 and 2018.

Akademi reportedly impressed the judges, a team comprising hoteliers, architects and interior designers, with its transformation of a traditional lobby bar into a place for learning, meeting and drinking.

(Read also: Motel Mexicola stands out among the crowd)

Located in the hotel’s lobby, Akademi is a collaborative effort between Indonesian-based hospitality and lifestyle company PTT Family and award-winning bartender Dre Masso. Unlike common hotel lobby lounges, it boasts as a hub for international mixologists to explore local flavors and train new talents.

The company's CEO Ronald Akili told The Jakarta Post via e-mail that the award served as a testament to his team’s talents and creativity.

“When the team designed Akademi, we wanted to put architecture as the palette for beautiful crafts and elements found in Indonesia and translate it within our signature contemporary style. We are proud that Akademi has gained this international recognition,” said Ronald. (kes)