China: Luxury hotel company The Silk Lakehouse opened in Hangzhou as the first Shangri-La Signatures ultra-luxury hotel.
The Silk Lakehouse occupies the former Xiling Hotel, which is located on the banks of West Lake. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built in 1898.
Designed by Belgian interior architect Gert Voorjans and Spanish designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán, the transformed property is inspired by a Jiangnan silk merchant’s home.
Views of West Lake and the hotel’s gardens are available from 68 rooms. Rooms have freestanding bathtubs, and AI-responsive mattress.
Hotel amenities include an indoor swimming pool and four F&B venues. The Living Room is led by Michelin starred chef Alan Yu and will feature a modern Western-style dining experience. The bar will serve innovative cocktails in partnership with San You.
Golden Silk will serve classic Hangzhou dishes reinterpreted, while the Tea House offers a variety of tea tastings.
Guests are also assigned a personal host through the Personal Host programme, who can assist with activities like tea ceremonies and incense making.
Future properties under the Shangri-La Signatures brand will be “envisioned as a refined private residence… rooted in local heritage” and offer “immersive experiences across art, wellness, gastronomy, and storytelling” said the company.
Highlights:
• The Silk Lakehouse in Hangzhou has debuted as the flagship property of ultra-luxury brand Shangri-La Signatures.
• Housed in the former Xiling Hotel on the UNESCO-listed West Lake, the site has been transformation by Gert Voorjans and Lázaro Rosa-Violán.
• The hotel features 68 rooms and suites, four F&B venues, and an indoor swimming pool.
• Every guest is paired with a dedicated host for tailored itineraries.
