Hilton’s glorious return to Shanghai; The architectural symphony was retuned

Seven years after its closure, the global Hilton brand has returned to downtown Shanghai with a project that is both a continuation of the past and a creative reinvention. The new “Hilton Shanghai City Center Hotel” is not only a luxury accommodation, which is a deep connection with the multi-layered urban and cultural identity of Shanghai; A city that has flourished with the intermingling of dynamic culture of East and West as well as tradition and modernity. (Love That Design)

Photographer: Unknown / Love That Design

The return of Hilton Hotel is a recreation of the brand’s pioneering entry into Shanghai in 1988. Inspired by the church organ and the famous piece “Toccata and Fugue” by Bach, the architects of this project have created an architectural narrative that is a metaphor of continuity, resonance and renewal. In this way, Hilton’s return is not just a simple reopening; Rather, it is considered a reinvestment in the symbolic and experiential heart of Shanghai’s urban story.

In the structure and materials used for the design of the Hilton Hotel, a contrasting layering strategy has been used, in which the memorable elements of Shanghai architecture are reflected through a contemporary lens. The lobby floor is inspired by musical notes, and its magnificent semi-circular ceiling with cascading chandeliers showcases the grandeur of the former Hilton hotel in a new context.

Historic works such as the statue of Venus and Cello, the work of Arman and the iconic spiral staircase have been preserved as main motifs to establish continuity with the past while setting the stage for a new interpretation. In other parts, the tubular geometry of the banquet hall is reminiscent of the vertical pipes of an organ, evoking both structural solidity and fabric-like softness.

In terms of space and atmosphere, the Hilton Hotel project fulfills the promise of creating an entertainment and cultural center by designing changing spaces throughout the day. A restaurant with a cinematic mural and a parametric interior recreates the 20th century saloon culture of Shanghai in a modern format.

The link with cultural backgrounds continues in guest rooms with simple color palettes of white and gray; Where classic curves combine with modern precision against a backdrop of stunning city views. Together, like a magnificent orchestra, these spaces evoke a feeling that focuses not only on luxury, but also on urban rhythm, memory, and poetry, making Hilton’s return a new and resounding movement in Shanghai’s cultural composition.

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Cover photo source: Love That Design | Photographer: Unknown