Shangri-La Hotel: A Harmonious Blend of Nature and Culture

Ryoichi Niwata's Award-Winning Design Showcases Singapore's Unique Cultural Tapestry

Ryoichi Niwata's design inspiration for the Shangri-La Hotel was drawn from Singapore's rich cultural heritage and abundant natural resources. The city's unique culture, a harmonious blend of various Asian cultures, is reflected in the hotel's interior design. The garden concept, a key element of the previous hotel design, was respectfully incorporated into the new design, but with a modern twist.

The lobby of the Shangri-La Hotel is a striking representation of the garden concept. A massive green feature wall behind the bar counter creates the illusion of a modern garden. Composed of black basalt rock and various Southeast Asian plants, this wall has become one of the most characteristic parts of the lobby space. The guest rooms, while still adhering to the garden concept, lean more towards a Zen style, offering a tranquil space for guests to relax.

The materials used in the hotel's design were sourced from all over Asia, reflecting Singapore's unique position as a crossroads of Asian culture. Rattan from Southeast Asia, black lacquer, black slate, and traditional Chinese furniture were all incorporated into the design. Modern artworks from Korea, Thailand, China, and Japan add a contemporary touch to the space.

The Shangri-La Hotel, with its 500 guest rooms and a lobby spanning 2635 square meters, is not just about design aesthetics. It also focuses on functionality. The lobby area features a buffet counter, a bar counter, and lounge seating, effectively increasing utilization rate. The guest rooms, designed with business travelers in mind, offer a comfortable workspace with a large desk and minibar.

The design journey of the Shangri-La Hotel was not without challenges. The team had to strike a balance between incorporating the garden concept and showcasing Singaporean culture. The use of pure materials from various Asian countries, including Southeast Asian rattan and traditional Chinese furniture, helped in achieving this balance. The result is a hotel that respects the history of Shangri-La Singapore while introducing a new brand image.

The Shangri-La Hotel's unique design has not gone unnoticed. In 2018, it was awarded the Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award, a prestigious accolade that recognizes top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs. This award is a testament to Ryoichi Niwata's exceptional design skills and innovative approach.