A New Chapter in Asian Hospitality: Shangri-La Unveils ‘Shangri-La Signatures’ with the Grand Opening of The Silk Lakehouse, Shangri-La Hangzhou

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Shangri-La Group (“Shangri-La”) proudly announces the official launch of its new ultra-luxury brand, Shangri-La Signatures, with the grand opening of its inaugural property: The Silk Lakehouse, Shangri-La Hangzhou. Set on the tranquil shores of West Lake — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — The Silk Lakehouse ushers in a new era of Asian hospitality, where cultural heritage, artistry, and nature converge to create a soulful homecoming – one that speaks to the heart.

Introducing Shangri-La Signatures: A New Expression of Asian Luxury

Shangri-La Signatures redefines modern luxury through the lens of cultural authenticity and heartfelt human connection. Each property under the brand is envisioned as a refined private residence, brought to life through collaborations with world-renowned designers and artisans. Rooted in local heritage and guided by a philosophy of intentional design, the brand curates immersive experiences across art, wellness, gastronomy, and storytelling.

This new brand narrative reflects Shangri-La’s continued evolution, offering a thoughtful interpretation of Asian hospitality – one that is emotionally resonant, culturally enriching, and deeply personal.

The Silk Lakehouse: A Cultural Retreat by West Lake

As the first hotel under the Shangri-La Signatures portfolio, The Silk Lakehouse draws inspiration from the refined elegance of a Jiangnan silk merchant’s home. Designed by Belgian visionary Gert Voorjans and Spanish design luminary Lázaro Rosa-Violán, the property embodies a seamless blend of Eastern tradition and contemporary sophistication.

The hotel’s architecture harmonises with the poetic landscapes of Hangzhou, while the interior design tells a story of artistry and place. A centrepiece of this narrative is a striking crystal art installation in the lobby, composed of 1,930 hand-blown Murano glass pieces, evoking the gentle movement of West Lake’s willow branches.

Honouring its historic location, The Silk Lakehouse occupies the former site of the Xiling Hotel – once a prestigious destination for state dignitaries. The property preserves and reinterprets original cultural elements, including the restored Autumn in Yandang Mountain Ou sculpture by master artisan Zhou Jinyun, originally commissioned in 1971 to welcome former U.S. President Richard Nixon. This thoughtful preservation reflects Shangri-La’s enduring connection to Hangzhou, where the Group opened its first hotel in Mainland China in 1984.

A Stay Designed Around You

With 68 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, The Silk Lakehouse offers panoramic views of West Lake or its serene private gardens. Each space is designed to evoke a sense of home, featuring freestanding bathtubs, AI-responsive mattresses and heated towel systems – blending a world of intuitive and modern comfort with contemporary luxury.

The hotel’s signature Personal Host Programme brings bespoke travel to life. Each guest is paired with a dedicated host who curates tailor-made cultural itineraries, from Song Dynasty-style tea ceremonies and incense making, to enamel craft, seal carving, silk weaving, and traditional Hangzhou fan making. These immersive activities are designed to foster meaningful connections to the city’s rich heritage and artistry.

Wellbeing is seamlessly woven into the experience. Guests are invited to rejuvenate in the grotto-style indoor swimming pool, take part in sunrise yoga and Tai Chi, or enjoy in-room mindfulness rituals such as guided meditation and breathwork, curated to nurture body, mind, and spirit.

A Culinary Celebration of East and West

The Silk Lakehouse presents a collection of refined dining concepts that honour Hangzhou’s rich culinary legacy:

The Living Room by Alan Yu: A modern Western dining experience led by Michelin-starred Chef Alan Yu, blending European techniques with locally sourced ingredients for a contemporary East-meets-West experience;
Golden Silk:
A tribute to regional cuisine, reinterpreting classic Hangzhou dishes alongside flavours from Wenzhou, Ningbo, and Taizhou;
Tea House: A serene setting inspired by Song Dynasty-style tea rituals, offering immersive tastings of local favourites – Longjing and Jiuqu Hongmei teas;
The Living Room by SANYOU: In partnership with San You, a laureate of Asia’s 50 Best Bars, guests enjoy creative cocktails featuring baijiu and other regional spirits.

As the flagship of Shangri-La Signatures, The Silk Lakehouse offers a sanctuary where nature, local culture, and modern luxury are in perfect harmony. It is an invitation to reconnect – with self, with heritage, and with the timeless spirit of Asian hospitality, amid the poetic serenity of West Lake.

Hotel website

Shangri-La Group