Shangri-La Unveils ‘Shangri-La Signatures’ with the Grand Opening of The Silk Lakehouse, Shangri-La Hangzhou

Shangri-La Group announces its launch of a new ultra-luxury hotel brand, Shangri-La Signatures. The grand opening of this property marks the official launch. The Silk Lakehouse in Shangri-La Hangzhou. Set on the tranquil shores of West Lake — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — The Silk Lakehouse ushers in a new era of Asian hospitality, where cultural heritage, artistry, and nature converge to create a soulful homecoming – one that speaks to the heart.

Shangri-La Signatures, a New Expression of Asian Luxuriousness

Shangri-La Signatures redefines luxury in the 21st century through a lens of cultural authenticity, and a heartfelt connection with people. Each property is designed as a private residence and brought to life by collaborations with designers and artisans from around the world. The brand, which is rooted in local heritage, follows a philosophy that promotes intentional design and curates immersive art, wellness and gastronomy experiences.

This new narrative is a reflection of Shangri-La’s ongoing evolution. It provides a thoughtful, emotional interpretation of Asian hospitality that is culturally rich, deeply personal, and emotionally resonant.

The Silk Lakehouse – A Cultural Retreat on West Lake

The Silk Lakehouse is the first Shangri La Signatures property. It draws its inspiration from the elegant home of Jiangnan’s silk merchant. Designed by Belgian visionary Gert Voorjans and Spanish design luminary Lázaro Rosa-Violán, the property embodies a seamless blend of Eastern tradition and contemporary sophistication.

The interior design of the hotel tells the story of place and artistry. This narrative is centred around a striking art installation of Murano glass made up of 1,930 pieces. It evokes the movement of the willow branches on West Lake.

The Silk Lakehouse pays homage its historical location by occupying the former Xiling Hotel, once a prestigious place for dignitaries. The property has preserved and reinterpreted original cultural elements. This includes the restored Autumn in Yandang Mountains Ou sculpture by master artist Zhou Jinyun. It was originally commissioned in 1970 to welcome former U.S. president Richard Nixon. This preservation reflects Shangri-La’s enduring relationship with Hangzhou, the city where it opened its first hotel on Mainland China.

Enjoy a Stay that is Designed Around You

The Silk Lakehouse has 68 rooms and suites with elegant interiors. They offer panoramic views of West Lake, or the tranquil gardens. The Silk Lakehouse’s 68 rooms and suites are designed to give guests a feeling of home. They feature freestanding bathtubs and AI-responsive mattresses, as well as heated towel systems.

Personal Host Program, the hotel’s signature programme, brings tailor-made travel to life. The hotel’s Personal Host Programme pairs each guest with a host who creates bespoke cultural itineraries. These include tea ceremonies in the Song Dynasty style, incense-making, enamel craft, seal carvings, silk weaving and traditional Hangzhou fans. These immersive activities aim to encourage meaningful connections with the city’s rich artistry and heritage.

Wellbeing is seamlessly integrated into the experience. The hotel offers a grotto style indoor pool and sunrise yoga, Tai Chi and mindfulness rituals in rooms such as guided mediation and breathwork.

East and West Culinary Celebration

The Silk Lakehouse is a collection refined dining concepts which honour Hangzhou’s rich culinary tradition:

• The Living Room of Alan Yu Modern Western cuisine led by Michelin-starred chef Alan Yu. This experience combines European techniques with local ingredients to create a modern East-meets West experience.
• Golden Silk:
  Reinterpreting classic Hangzhou dishes with flavours from Wenzhou and Ningbo;
• Tea House Tea tastings in a serene environment inspired by Song Dynasty tea rituals.
• The Living Room of SANYOU San You is a laureate from Asia’s 50 best bars. Guests can enjoy a creative cocktail featuring baijiu or other regional spirits.

The Silk Lakehouse, the flagship of Shangri-La Signatures offers a sanctuary in which nature, local culture and modern luxury exist in perfect harmony. The Silk Lakehouse is an invitation to reconnect with yourself, your heritage and the timeless spirit that defines Asian hospitality. It’s located in the poetic serenity surrounding West Lake.

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