Unveiling JW Marriott Hotel: A Fusion of Luxury and Oriental Aesthetics

Bo Liu and Hank Xia's Design Masterpiece in Shanghai's Seaside District

Bo Liu and Hank Xia, the creative minds behind the design, drew inspiration from the legendary bird Roc from the fable "Roc hopping into the sea". The hotel's exterior is imagined as this mythical creature, while its interior carries forward the sense of creativity, unveiling layer after layer of exquisite design. Natural materials such as wood and marble are incorporated in curvilinear forms, reflecting the waves of the nearby East Sea.

The JW Marriott Hotel stands out for its unique location in Shanghai’s seaside district Fengxian. This urban oasis spans over 52000 m2 and offers enriching experiences for the body and mind in Hangzhou Bay. The hotel features 265 exquisite guestrooms and suites, 1,800 m2 meeting space area, a 900 m2 grand banquet hall, and three distinctive restaurants and a bar. The design elements ensure luxurious comfort in restful shades of sable and blue, echoing the beaches and sea with clean modern lines.

The design realization technology incorporates Marble, Timber, Metal, Stainless Steel, Glass, and Wood carving. The hotel's technical specifications include a total area of 52000m2, featuring 265 modern guestrooms, three restaurants, a meeting space area of 1,800 m2, a grand banquet hall of 900 m2, a Spa by JW Asia, and a Children's Activity Centre. An executive lounge provides an ideal spot for work while contemplating the surrounding natural scenery.

The design process was strategically planned and well-thought-out. The designers applied perception theory to enhance the humanization level of the hotel and get the customers' affirmation. The project started in November 2018 and was completed in May 2020, in Fengxian, Shanghai, China. The design research was based on catering to sophisticated, mindful travelers seeking experiences that help them be fully present, foster meaningful connections, and feed the soul.

The design faced challenges in articulating Marriott International’s luxury portfolio brand strategy, philosophy, and globally consistent image while considering the owner's tight budget and the operation's needs. The complexity and diversity of functions within a hotel building required coordination with various technical stakeholders. Despite these challenges, the JW Marriott Hotel was awarded the Golden A' Hospitality, Recreation, Travel and Tourism Design Award in 2022, reflecting the designers' prodigy and wisdom.