City Inn Chengdu Kuanzhai Alley: A Modern Art Gallery Hotel

Transforming History into Contemporary Design

City Inn Chengdu Kuanzhai Alley, designed by Chihkang Chu, is a unique hotel that seamlessly blends history and modernity. With its innovative approach, this hotel has transformed into a modern art gallery, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the rich history of the area while enjoying contemporary comforts.

The design of City Inn Chengdu Kuanzhai Alley is centered around the concept of showcasing the history of the area. In the lobby, photos and products from the past are displayed as art pieces, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. Each room is decorated in monotone, with black-and-white street views adorning the walls and retro-style furniture in black, white, or grey. The result is a room that resembles a pop-up photo, where guests become the only colorful objects in a black-and-white scene.

Despite the limited budget, the design team utilized simple yet effective techniques to create a visually stunning space. The clever use of mirrors creates the illusion of a larger space, while the restaurant features floor-to-ceiling windows that allow natural light to filter through bamboo plants, giving it a distinct Sichuan style.

City Inn Chengdu Kuanzhai Alley covers a total area of 4742 sqm and serves as a modern art gallery of "Present and Past." By showcasing the beauty of objects from the past, the hotel aims to highlight the historical significance of the area and provide guests with a unique and memorable experience.

The design of City Inn Chengdu Kuanzhai Alley has garnered attention and recognition. In 2017, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category. This prestigious award recognizes designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving quality of life.

City Inn Chengdu Kuanzhai Alley is not just a hotel; it is an immersive experience that allows guests to see and feel the history of the area. Through its innovative design, this modern art gallery hotel has successfully created a space that is both nostalgic and contemporary, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and culturally rich experience.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Wenqiang Han
Image Credits: Image #1: Photographer Chihkang Chu, Chengdu, 2016. Image #2: Photographer Chihkang Chu, Chengdu, 2016. Image #3: Photographer Chihkang Chu, Chengdu, 2016. Image #4: Photographer Chihkang Chu, Chengdu, 2016. Image #5: Photographer Chihkang Chu, Chengdu, 2016.
Project Team Members: Chief Designer: Chihkang Chu
Project Name: City Inn Chengdu Kuanzhai Alley
Project Client: Wenqiang Han


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