Latest news with #AndréFu
Forbes
17 hours ago
- Business
- Forbes
Is Quiet Luxury Over? Top Designer André Fu Believes It's Here To Stay
A calming, luxurious suite at Dusit Thani Bangkok To say interior architect André Fu is in demand is quite the understatement. In the past year alone, his eponymous André Fu Studio (AFSO) had a hand in four headline projects: The Emory in London, the city's first all-suite hotel; Dusit Thani Bangkok, a reinvention of a historic flagship property; Capella Taipei, styled as a modern mansion and the eighth opening of the award-winning hospitality group; and Waldorf Astoria Osaka, the luxury brand's first foray in Japan. So while fashion has become disillusioned with the quiet luxury aesthetic, Fu's popularity is testament to the power of elegant restraint. Known for his East-meets-West aesthetic and a calming yet textured palette, his worldly approach is far from 'boring beige'—he creates spaces with warmth, character and sophistication in spades. We speak to the lauded interior architect and founder of André Fu Living, on his timely yet timeless designs, his creative process and what's next. Plume is the elevated lobby bar at Capella Taipei You often describe your style as 'relaxed luxury'. What would you say are the ingredients of the André Fu style? Perhaps it is my approach to design—it is never about capturing a particular trend of style. I would typically immerse myself in walking around the site, conducting engaging conversations with the locals and conjuring the narrative for the project. This serves as the backbone for the project to evolve and develop, but it is always about bringing everyone back to the original vision and being truthful to it. Your projects span new builds and historic spaces. Do you approach them differently? Each hotel takes years to realise so whenever I accept a new project, I need to convince myself that there is something unique that I want to tell. This mindset allows me to see each project as a way to capture a new side of my aesthetic world. Andre Fu used Jim Thompson Thai silk and handmade ceramic tiles at the Dusit Thani Bangkok For the Dusit Thani Bangkok, you were able to weave a lot of the hotel's history into the space. Walk us through the creative process: It was about paying homage to the original hotel's distinct character, while also offering something fresh and innovative. I imagined a visual journey to celebrate Thai culture and design sensibilities, art and craftsmanship throughout each destination within the property. I adopted a vast variety of local materials, including Jim Thompson Thai silk and handmade ceramic tiles to celebrate the local artisan offerings, and juxtaposed them with European fabrics and stones. Palette wise, one may notice an expansive use of exotic tropical colors to celebrate the sense of place. One of the key highlights in the project can be found in the main lobby: multiple freestanding bronze screens, designed in collaboration with Bangkok-based projecttSTUDIO. This handcrafted sculpture has intricate interwoven patterns to conjure a layered visual experience, evoking a dynamic sense of movement and ascension. The level of intricacy for the scale we have dreamt up is highly ambitious. The stunning Peacock Alley at Waldorf Astoria Osaka From post-pandemic recovery to economic uncertainty and ongoing wars, the world seems more chaotic. Do you think this has changed how many of us view hotels? I think hotels are an ultimate expression of lifestyle—it ought to elevate one's senses on a 360-degree level. Guests are also seeking for each hotel to have a point of view and a story to tell, akin to reflecting on their own personal values. On that note, it perhaps explains why I have always challenged myself with coming up with a particular vision and narrative for each project. Sometimes it is about the brand that I'm working with, sometimes it's about revolving around the context of the hotel, or everything in between. What would your dream holiday look like? My bucket list at present includes a trip to Brasilia to admire the works of Oscar Niemeyer. Every summer, I also take a few days to return to Villa La Coste—one of my favorite projects nestled in Aix-en-Provence to immerse myself in its world of art, architecture and wine culture. Lastly, can you share future plans that you're personally excited about? Other than some key addresses and hotels in the making, my next step involves taking my own brand, André Fu Living, outside of Asia.
Forbes
22-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
New Waldorf Astoria Osaka Raises The Bar On Luxury
Peacock Alley at Waldorf Astoria Osaka The Waldorf Astoria brand made its glittering debut in Japan earlier this month. The much-anticipated Waldorf Astoria Osaka blends New York glamour with Japanese design essence in a shiny new-build set on the top floors of a 39-story skyscraper that forms part of the new Grand Green Osaka development. Imagined by André Fu, the celebrated Hong Kong-based interior designer behind some of the world's most iconic hotels, including Capella Singapore and The Upper House in Hong Kong, the hotel is an intriguing mix of Eastern and Western design. Fu's blend of the unabashed grandeur of Waldorf Astoria's New York Art Deco roots with the understated sensibility of Japanese zen minimalism is not just tasteful and sophisticated, but downright jaw dropping. If you meet at the clock at Waldorf Astoria Osaka, it will be under this 144-year-old timepiece from legendary Japanese manufacturer Seiko. Like the elegant Peacock Alley, the new place to see and be seen in Osaka, with its soaring ceilings, mesmerizing views and statement clock—a 144-year-old timepiece from legendary Japanese manufacturer Seiko—echoing the legacy of the original Waldorf Astoria New York. The 252 guest rooms are some of largest in the city, offering a mix of delicate Japanese design details and classic Waldorf Astoria comforts. The rooms, which include two 1,570 square-foot penthouse suites and a more than 2,000 square-foot Presidential Suite, all sit between the 31st and 38th floors, offering breathtaking 360-degree views spanning all the way from Osaka Bay to the Hyogo mountaintops. The hotel also features three additional food and drinks venues, as well as a huge fitness and wellness center. Osaka is part neon-lit metropolis, part retro-futuristic old town. Often ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, Osaka is known as The Kitchen of Japan (yes, its food credentials even rival those of Tokyo!), famous for dishes like shabu-shabu (or Japanese hotpot) and a myriad of street food, from battered octopus balls (takoyaki) to cabbage-filled pancakes (okonomiyaki). Osaka is part neon-lit metropolis, part retro-futuristic old town. It is safe, progressive, easy to navigate, and an ideal alternative to Tokyo and Kyoto as more young travelers prioritize lesser-known destinations over those suffering under the blight of overtourism. "Today's luxury travelers are increasingly seeking out less obvious destinations, often bypassing 'overtourism' hotspots in favor of authenticity and deeper connections," says Candice D'Cruz, Vice President, Hilton Luxury Brands, Asia Pacific, adding that luxury hotel brands are finding new homes in places where travelers seek both novelty and familiarity. The bedroom of the Presidential Suite at Waldorf Astoria Osaka. D'Cruz explains that, while Osaka has long been a world-class destination, its luxury hospitality market has remained relatively untapped compared to Tokyo and Kyoto. "Waldorf Astoria has always been known for its pioneering spirit, and with Waldorf Astoria Osaka, we have embraced this legacy while delivering luxury in a way that resonates with a new generation of travelers. Our guests are getting younger, and they desire an effortless yet refined experience of luxury that feels personal, intuitive, and seamlessly integrated into their lifestyle," she adds. Canes & Tales cocktail bar at Waldorf Astoria Osaka. Takanori Nakamura, a journalist and television presenter specializing in luxury lifestyle and the Asia's 50 Best Restaurants Academy Chair for Japan, agrees that the opening of Waldorf Astoria Osaka has the potential to "bring a significant impact". He says that, while Osaka has a "unique" food culture, one that has the potential to make the city a very attractive destination for travel and tourism, this is not well known globally. "When people think of the city of Osaka, both in Japan and abroad, not many of them think it's luxurious," continues Nakamura, adding that Osaka tends to be perceived as "casual, intimate and friendly". "This opening could be a breakthrough, since the Waldorf Astoria brand is one of the most luxurious there is," Nakamura says. Waldorf Astoria Osaka has four food and drinks venues, including Jolie Bistro, a contemporary reimagining of a classic French brasserie. The new hotel is set right on Umekita Park, the site of Grand Green Osaka, an urban development project that has turned the city's disused train yards into an 11.5-acre park and commercial complex. Apart from the Waldorf Astoria, other high-profile openings here include the new Time Out Market Osaka, the first of its kind in Asia, featuring a carefully curated selection of 17 kitchens and two bars that showcase the best of the Kansai region's top culinary talents. Just a few minutes' walk from Osaka train station, Waldorf Astoria offers easy access to all the culinary and cultural wonders of Japan's second city—from the designer boutiques of Shinsaibashi, to the culinary vibrancy of Dotonbori, and the storied grounds of Osaka Castle—as well as the nearby cities of Kyoto, Nara and Kobe. All three are less than an hour away by high-speed train—an ideal option for anyone wishing to plan a day trip and be back in time for dinner. Kyoto, with its temples, shrines, and geisha, is only 15 minutes from Osaka by bullet train. And whereas Kyoto has been forced to implement measures such as banning tourists from certain areas and imposing a higher lodging tax for hotels following an unprecedented influx of post-Covid tourists, Osaka remains less crowded and more affordable than its neighbor. Last but not least, timing is everything, and the opening of Waldorf Astoria Osaka could not be more optimally positioned to cater to the more than 28 million travelers who are expected to visit the city in the coming months to attend the Osaka-Kansai World Expo that kicked off on April 13. "We are thrilled to open our doors at a moment when the world's eyes are on Osaka. With the city preparing to take center stage for the Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025, Waldorf Astoria Osaka is not just a new luxury hotel but also a symbol of the city's transformation and future as a premier global destination," comments Candice D'Cruz. The Waldorf Astoria Osaka has a huge wellness and fitness center, including a spa, an impressive gym and a dreamy indoor pool. "Japan is unquestionably one of the world's most compelling and sophisticated destinations. As Hilton celebrates more than 60 years of legacy in this remarkable country, we are proud to debut our iconic Waldorf Astoria brand in Osaka and elevate the benchmark of luxury in this cosmopolitan city,' said Alan Watts, president, Asia Pacific, Hilton, concluding: "This is a historic year for the brand worldwide, as we mark the growth of luxury travel here in Asia Pacific and set the course to more than double our Waldorf Astoria portfolio in this region over the next two years.'
South China Morning Post
30-03-2025
- Business
- South China Morning Post
Andre Fu reimagines Bangkok's Dusit Thani, blending modernity and heritage in reborn landmark
In the heart of Bangkok, overlooking Lumpini Park, stands the reborn Dusit Thani hotel – razed in 2019 after a blockbuster half-century run and now completely rebuilt under the direction of Hong Kong's André Fu . On every metric, it's a remarkable second act, not least because the Cambridge University-trained, Royal Institute of British Architects-qualified architect has breathed new life into this legendary property without succumbing to nostalgia or sterile modernity. Advertisement In a city flooded with luxury hotels, Fu's reimagining stands apart with singular clarity, the new incarnation, which opened last September, arguably representing his most sophisticated achievement since The Upper House in Hong Kong catapulted him to design stardom 16 years ago. The lotus leaf-inspired hexagonal ceiling of the lobby at Dusit Thani Bangkok. Photo: courtesy Dusit Thani Forget the usual hotel revival playbook, where designers cling to the past or erase it entirely. Step into Fu's lobby, with its lotus leaf-inspired hexagonal ceiling – an arresting three-dimensional construct that echoes the original – and you experience something more nuanced: a space that nods to Thai heritage without becoming a cultural museum. It's Thai design with the dust blown off. When the original Dusit Thani opened, in 1970, it dominated Bangkok's skyline as Thailand's tallest building. For five decades, it thrummed as the city's social heartbeat, hosting royal events, global leaders and celebrities in its restaurants, bars and ballrooms. The hotel's golden spire, inspired by Wat Arun , became a distinctive silhouette on the Bangkok horizon. A pillar from the old Dusit Thani Bangkok's Benjarong restaurant now stands in the lobby of the new, Fu-designed hotel. Photo: courtesy Dusit Thani But time had taken its toll. Low ceilings and outdated facilities no longer met the standards of modern hospitality. Rather than settle for another renovation, the third-generation owners, the Donavanik family, made the difficult decision to demolish the original structure for something new, tapping Architects 49 and OMA Asia for the glossy new 39-storey tower. Advertisement
Yahoo
03-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
St Regis Shenzhen Bao'an opens in China
St Regis Hotels & Resorts, a luxury hotel chain owned by Marriott International, has opened the St Regis Shenzhen Bao'an in China. Situated 51 storeys above the city, the hotel offers views of Qianhai Bay and is 15km from Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport. St Regis Hotels & Resorts senior vice president and global brand leader George Fleck said: 'The debut of The St Regis Shenzhen Bao'an marks a significant milestone as we expand our presence in this vibrant city, bringing a new level of elegance and bespoke service to the heart of one of China's most exciting and dynamic districts. 'This opening highlights our strategic focus on growth in rapidly evolving destinations, where we seamlessly blend St Regis' storied heritage with modern innovation, capturing the distinctive spirit of each locale to offer unparalleled experiences for the world's most discerning travellers.' The St Regis Shenzhen Bao'an's design, conceived by interior architect André Fu, reflects a narrative titled "A Tale of Two Cities," which harmonises the essence of New York, US, and Shenzhen, China. The hotel offers 289 guest rooms and suites, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, Oriental-inspired timber screens, and bespoke marquetry headboards. The brand's St Regis Butler Service enables a personalised guest experience while the St Regis Spa offers a selection of treatments, complemented by a fitness centre and a 25m infinity pool with bay views. The hotel also caters to events of all sizes, offering over 1,000m² of event space, including the 696m² Astor Ballroom, equipped with audiovisual technology. The St Regis Shenzhen Bao'an general manager Doris Deng said: 'The St Regis Shenzhen Bao'an is a new beacon of luxury in one of China's most dynamic cities. 'We look forward to welcoming guests to experience the timeless elegance and bespoke service that define the St Regis brand.' Guests at the St Regis Shenzhen Bao'an can participate in Marriott International's global travel programme Marriott Bonvoy. St Regis Hotels & Resorts With more than 60 luxury hotels and resorts worldwide, continues to expand its presence. In August 2021, St Regis Hotels & Resorts unveiled the St Regis Qingdao in Shandong, China. "St Regis Shenzhen Bao'an opens in China" was originally created and published by Hotel Management Network, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
Associated Press
28-02-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Elevating Luxury in Shenzhen: St. Regis Hotels & Resorts Unveils its Second Landmark in Bao'an
Set High Above the Vibrant Cityscape, the Hotel Brings Celebrated Rituals and Exquisite Experiences to the City's Growing Commercial District SHANGHAI, Feb. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- St. Regis Hotels & Resorts today announced the highly anticipated debut of The St. Regis Shenzhen Bao'an in one of China's most dynamic cities. Soaring 51 stories above the city with panoramic views of Qianhai Bay, the hotel sets to exemplify the brand's timeless legacy through bespoke experiences, sophisticated design, and unparalleled service. 'The debut of The St. Regis Shenzhen Bao'an marks a significant milestone as we expand our presence in this vibrant city, bringing a new level of elegance and bespoke service to the heart of one of China's most exciting and dynamic districts,' said George Fleck, Senior Vice President and Global Brand Leader of St. Regis Hotels & Resorts. 'This opening highlights our strategic focus on growth in rapidly evolving destinations, where we seamlessly blend St. Regis' storied heritage with modern innovation, capturing the distinctive spirit of each locale to offer unparalleled experiences for the world's most discerning travelers.' Set on the western side of Shenzhen, Bao'an District is a dynamic and rapidly developing area known for its strategic location and excellent connectivity. The St. Regis Shenzhen Bao'an enjoys a prime location just 15 kilometers from Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport, offering effortless access for international and domestic travelers. The hotel is also conveniently close to key landmarks such as the Bao'an Government Building, the Public Cultural and Art Center, OH Bay, and the Bao'an Library, making it an ideal choice for business and leisure guests alike. With seamless connections to major transportation hubs and cultural attractions, guests can easily explore the city while enjoying the hotel's sophisticated luxury and unparalleled convenience. Designed by internationally acclaimed interior architect André Fu, The St. Regis Shenzhen Bao'an draws inspiration from the unique synergy between New York, the birthplace of the first St. Regis, and Shenzhen, a global hub for innovation. This concept, 'A Tale of Two Cities', harmonizes New York's timeless glamour with Shenzhen's dynamic energy. Fu's signature relaxed luxury ethos reflects the brand's 120-year history of timeless elegance and thoughtful design, creating a space that is both contemporary and deeply rooted in its locale. Each of the 289 guestrooms and suites showcases a refined urban mansion aesthetic. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame sweeping views of the city or Qianhai Bay, while Oriental-inspired timber screens, alabaster lighting, and marquetry headboards elevate the interiors with artistic precision. A palette of dark oak parquet, Carrara marble, and muted tones of sage green and deep terra cotta creates a warm yet sophisticated ambiance, offering a sanctuary of modern elegance. Guests will also enjoy the St. Regis Butler Service, a personalized signature offering of the brand that ensures personalized and anticipatory service at every turn. The hotel's four distinctive dining venues harmoniously blend St. Regis sophistication with Shenzhen's globalized culinary scene. Helmed by the acclaimed Chinese Executive Chef and culinary talent Watson Chen, Yan Ting serves classic Cantonese dishes that are reimagined with modern artistry, celebrating the finest local ingredients. The St. Regis Bar invites guests to indulge in an inspired list of cocktails, including the Bay Mary – a distinctive blend of lychee and osmanthus that also serves as the hotel's unique twist on the iconic St. Regis Bloody Mary. The Drawing Room offers the brand's signature Afternoon Tea ritual, with premium teas and coffees and an elegant selection of Chinese and Western delicacies. Meanwhile, The St. Regis Astor Terrace Bar provides a serene rooftop setting serving vintage wines and signature cocktails; as the sun sets, guests can partake in cocktails celebrating the transition from day to night. For guests looking to unwind, The St. Regis Spa offers a curated selection of treatments that blend modern wellness innovations with traditional techniques. Guests can rejuvenate with tailored treatments performed by expert therapists in an environment that exudes tranquility and refinement. The spa is complemented by a state-of-the-art Fitness Center featuring a 25-meter infinity pool with sweeping bay views, offering a serene retreat from the city's vibrant pace. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, The St. Regis Shenzhen Bao'an redefines event hosting with sophisticated yet versatile facilities. The 696-square-meter pillarless Astor Ballroom, equipped with cutting-edge audiovisual technology, provides a sophisticated venue for both social and corporate occasions, ensuring every event is executed with precision and style. 'The St. Regis Shenzhen Bao'an is a new beacon of luxury in one of China's most dynamic cities,' said Doris Deng, General Manager, The St. Regis Shenzhen Bao'an. 'We look forward to welcoming guests to experience the timeless elegance and bespoke service that define the St. Regis brand.' For more information, please visit: The St. Regis Shenzhen Bao'an Website. ABOUT THE ST. REGIS SHENZHEN BAO'AN The St. Regis Shenzhen Bao'an enjoys a prime location in the heart of the thriving Bao'an District. Featuring 289 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, each offering breathtaking views of the city skyline or the bay, the hotel promises a refined and unforgettable stay. Guests can indulge in a variety of dining experiences across four exquisite restaurants and bars, each offering a harmonious blend of St. Regis's signature elegance and the vibrant flavors of local cuisine. The hotel also boasts over 1,000 square meters of versatile event space, including the Astor Ballroom and several meeting rooms, making it the ideal destination for both business and leisure. With personalized butler service, a state-of-the-art Fitness Center, and a luxurious spa, The St. Regis Shenzhen Bao'an redefines the standard of luxury in Shenzhen, offering an exceptional fusion of elegance, service, and innovation. ABOUT ST. REGIS HOTELS & RESORTS Combining timeless glamour with a vanguard spirit, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts is committed to delivering exquisite experiences at more than 60 luxury hotels and resorts in the best addresses around the world. Beginning with the debut of The St. Regis Hotel in New York by John Jacob Astor IV at the dawn of the twentieth century, the brand has remained committed to an uncompromising level of bespoke and anticipatory service for all of its guests, delivered flawlessly by the signature St. Regis Butler Service. For more information and new openings, visit or follow Instagram and Facebook. St. Regis is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments, and unparalleled benefits including complimentary nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit ABOUT LUXURY GROUP BY MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL With an unrivaled portfolio of seven dynamic luxury brands, Marriott International is creating authentic, rare, and enriching experiences sought by today's global luxurian. Spanning all corners of the world, Marriott International's luxury brands group offers a boundless network of more than 529 landmark hotels and resorts in 73 countries and territories through The Ritz-Carlton, Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, EDITION, The Luxury Collection, JW Marriott, and W Hotels. From the world's most iconic destinations to the ultimate undiscovered gems, the international hospitality leader's collection of luxury brands is focused on elevating travel with highly contextualized, nuanced brand experiences that signal the future of luxury by allowing guests to indulge their passions while sparking personal growth. For more information on Luxury Group, stay connected on Instagram. ABOUT MARRIOTT BONVOY® Marriott Bonvoy's extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with more than 30 brands that are tailored to every type of journey. From The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis to W Hotels and more, Marriott Bonvoy has more luxury offerings than any other travel program. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, and through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques®. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit
