Shantou Marriott Hotel: Where Modern Luxury Meets Heritage

Paul Liu crafts a tranquil retreat inspired by Chaoshan culture

The Shantou Marriott Hotel, designed by Paul Liu, redefines hospitality interior design by seamlessly integrating modern luxury with elements that pay homage to the local heritage. Located in Guangdong Province, China, the hotel’s setting between mountains and the sea provides a dramatic backdrop, while its architecture and interiors reflect the unique spirit of the Chaoshan region. The property’s open layout and streamlined design create a sense of spaciousness, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments and inviting guests to immerse themselves in the surrounding landscape.

One of the hotel’s most striking features is its use of soft, natural color palettes, which foster a serene and comfortable atmosphere throughout its 315 guest rooms and suites. Each space draws inspiration from the intangible cultural heritage of Chaozhou and Shantou, with carefully curated details that evoke a sense of tranquility and relaxation. The design team, led by Creative Director Bo Liu, has ensured that every element—from furnishings to finishes—contributes to a cohesive and inviting guest experience.

Central to the hotel’s identity is a colossal mural panel in the lobby, measuring 8150mm by 4800mm by 25mm, which reinterprets the “Four Gold Points” concept, a cherished aspect of Chaoshan’s non-material culture. This artistic installation, along with other decor elements, showcases the hotel’s commitment to celebrating local traditions through a modern lens. The exterior and interior details, inspired by Lingnan’s traditional folk housing, incorporate green bricks, stone columns, and floral motifs, further reinforcing the connection to regional craftsmanship.

Material selection played a pivotal role in the project’s success. The designers prioritized durable, corrosion-resistant materials to withstand the coastal environment while maintaining aesthetic appeal. This approach not only ensures longevity but also enhances the tactile and visual experience for guests. The hotel’s consistently high occupancy rates—often exceeding 300 rooms at full capacity—underscore its appeal as a harmonious and tranquil oasis for travelers seeking both comfort and cultural immersion.

The Shantou Marriott Hotel’s innovative approach has garnered international recognition, earning the prestigious Golden A' Design Award in 2025 for Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design. This accolade highlights the project’s outstanding contribution to advancing art, science, and design, and its role in shaping the future of hospitality environments.

By artfully blending modern luxury with the essence of Chaoshan heritage, Paul Liu’s Shantou Marriott Hotel invites guests to experience a unique convergence of tradition and innovation, setting a new benchmark for hospitality design in China and beyond.