Bathed in flattering golden light, the foyer and atrium bar of London's Dorsett Hotel subtly evoke the Art Deco glamour of the roaring '20s.

Designed by Ralph Walker—heralded in a 1957 New York Times article as the “architect of the century” but long since fallen into obscurity—the 19-story, dramatically setbacked, and ornately detailed structure was originally built for the New York Telephone Company in 1930.

With a dramatic cantilever and carefully coordinated sets of mirrors, a design team brings sunlight into a new development in Sydney.

Fluor Architecture's renovation of a 15th century building for the Fondation Vincent van Gogh d'Arles exploits the city's brilliant sunlight.

L'Aire Visuelle is a boutique for eyewear and eyecare designed by la SHED Architecture In 2012, the Laval, Quebec'based optical practice Duquette & Turgeon decided to recraft its image. Sporting a new moniker L'Aire Visuelle, the eye-care provider ditched its original coke-bottle branding for a logo and website with streamlined designer flair.

Despite Japan's energy belt-tightening, triggered by the Great Eastern Japan Earthquake of 2011, dazzling lighting effects still bedeck most luxury boutiques in Tokyo's Ginza shopping district.

A bright new shop on Manhattan's West 22nd street is turning the idea of retail on its head.