Men room is configured for government- style meetings in the Chinese tradition. A second ballroom, The Diamond Ballroom, is located on the top floor and offers stunning views over Tianjin through floor-to-ceiling windows. Polished wood floors, white marble accents, and gold-coloured glass pillars, as well as a graceful leaf motif on the ceiling, are to dazzling effect. A rooftop courtyard completes the offering. Designed by East China Architectural
Design & Research Institute (ECADI), the 18-floor building is constructed from steel and glass in the shape of a hollowed cube that further complements the concept of ‘Jin Men.’ Interiors are the work of London-based
KCA International led by Design Principal and founder Khuan Chew, herself of Chinese descent. The design brief revolved around the historical stature of the St. Regis brand and its heritage of tradition, elegance, and
luxury dating back more than 100 years to the grand opening of St. Regis New York by the Astor family. “Our task was to ensure that we guaranteed this atmosphere in the experience for the guests,” explains Chew. “We referenced design ideas from the Art Deco and Art Nouveau eras of the 20th century, and were inspired by Grande American high society. We imagined what it would be like to have tea in our tea lounge, dinner at the French restaurant, staying at the Presidential Suite and recreating the lifestyle of Mr and Mrs Astor,” she adds. Local elements have been incorporated
into the design, however Chew points out that Tianjin is one of the most Western looking cities in China with diverse architecture thanks to European Concessions. “The spirit of the hotel was more a Western approach with touches of Chinoiserie in the decoration,” she explains. The majority of furniture was selected
and made locally, and while the client is happy with the outcome, Chew expressed frustration with some finishes being substituted without prior knowledge. Guestrooms continue the contemporary
Western aesthetic with ancient Chinese influences, and are completed in a warm beige and burgundy palette. Ranging in size from 42 to 427m2
, the 238 rooms and
36 suites are among the largest in Tianjin. Each room offers modern conveniences including a 40-inch flatscreen LCD TV, Bang & Olufsen sound system, and iPod docking station, while Chinoserie can be seen in the detailing. A black marble bathroom with dual vanities, a bathtub, and separate glass- enclosed rainforest shower, includes Reméde amenities and an LCD TV embedded in the mirror. Guests can also enjoy the services of a personal St. Regis butler trained in the English tradition of impeccable service – a first for a Tianjin hotel.
Sleeper China 2012 45
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