What kind of hotel truly wins the hearts of its guests? Some people value service, while others prioritise location — everyone has their own standards. For luxury hotels, however, what leaves a lasting impression is often more than just impressive hardware or amenities; it is the ability to create a complete and immersive experience. Beyond grand interiors, well-appointed facilities, and attentive hospitality, design plays an essential role. In addition to showcasing spatial aesthetics, great design conveys a brand’s spirit and cultural identity. Every detail — from material selection and lighting composition to visual storytelling and symbolic meaning — shapes whether guests can genuinely connect with the soul of a space.
For this cover story, we invited Avalon Collective founder and Principal Design Director Cedric Jaccard for an exclusive interview. He shares his insights and philosophy on luxury hospitality design while taking readers through several signature projects. In addition, we turn our attention to some of Asia’s most talked-about new luxury hotels as we explore the design concepts behind these remarkable hospitality destinations.
Journey through Water
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Hangzhou City, known for its Grand Canal and West Lake, Four Seasons Hangzhou City Centre invites guests to embark on a journey through the water. Its design embodies the essence of Hangzhou's architecture, literature, art, heritage, and crafts within a modern setting. Guests are invited to indulge in moments throughout the week for both business and leisure, from arrival to check-in.
Four Seasons Hangzhou embraces a modern approach, seamlessly blending the essence of water with the evocative atmosphere of Hangzhou's iconic waterways through 'The Theoretics of Water.' The themes include INTERCONNECTED (Lobby Spaces), LAYERED (Function Venues), REFLECTION (Recreational Areas), and LIGHT & SHADOW (Accommodations)—a tranquil sanctuary designed to cater to both weekday business stays and weekend getaways.
INTERCONNECTED
The Arrival & Lobby area acts as an interconnected hub, much like a canal junction where multiple pathways intersect, facilitating navigation and interactions among individuals, ideas, and activities. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by an entrance adorned with suspended lamp art featuring leaves of a willow tree, complemented by a discreet concierge. Adjacent to this, a standing lamp reminiscent of a lotus found along the Grand Canal serves as a guiding element, leading guests along their journey through the waterways. Infused with elements of traditional Hangzhou craftsmanship, the lotus lamp showcases intricate pleats akin to those seen in Wang Xing Ji Fan, imbuing it with cultural significance.
At the lobby, guests are welcomed by a soaring double-height ceiling adorned with a captivating overhead art installation reminiscent of Wu Guanzhong's Jiangnan architectural eaves, shaped like a wave. The artwork depicts misty waves gently swaying amidst an azure sky, with buildings and palaces silhouetted against the evening sun. Centrally positioned, the seating area resembles a boat on a canal, overlooking the discreetly located reception at the far end, enveloped by undulating wave-like contours. The floor tiles mirror the gentle waves of the canal, setting a tranquil tone for the beginning of a journey on water, evoking a scene akin to a first encounter with the West Lake beauty—soft and enchanting.
LAYERED
The Function Venues & Club Lounge features a muted canvas layered with subtle patterns inspired by undulating waves, designed to cater to a variety of activities, from lively social gatherings to quiet moments of reflection. The pre-function area includes a glass conservatory that allows natural daylight to filter in from above, creating a bright and welcoming space. This area features scenes from Bai Juyi's poem "Spring on the Lake", depicting the layered mood of spring on the lake. The contrasting terrain, both flat and smooth, is created using furniture, lamps, and wall curves.
REFLECTION
During the day, the Changing Room, Gym, and Pool area are bathed in serene reflections, offering guests a refreshing and contemplative ambiance. As guests transition from their daily routines to wellness activities, they are enveloped in a soothing atmosphere created by the gentle interplay of light on the water's surface. The low scallop ceiling and low-lying day beds further enhance the calming atmosphere, providing a peaceful retreat for all guests. In contrast, the Spa area draws inspiration from the reflective qualities of water during dusk, evoking a sense of tranquillity and depth. Here, guests unwind and indulge in luxurious spa treatments amidst an atmosphere enhanced by deeper shadows. These shadows create a grounded and calming mood, immersing guests in a truly relaxing experience.
LIGHT & SHADOW
The guestrooms are meticulously designed to create an atmosphere where the interplay of light and shadow allows guests to fully appreciate every moment of the day. Inspired by the quote "On the mist-covered lake, where ripples gently sway, water and sky blend into one," the design seamlessly integrates elements of water, lakes, and canals.
Moving into the bedroom, guests first encounter the bed, followed by the study area. The lamps are strategically placed at the same height, creating a serene atmosphere along the canal. The bedroom is adorned with shades of salmon at dusk and turquoise reminiscent of water. The study table, positioned at the room's end, provides guests with scenic views, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a cup of Longjing tea. By seamlessly blending the exploration of Hangzhou’s waterway and culture, Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou City Centre embodies the true essence of modern Hangzhou. Here, guests embark on a distinctive journey through the soul of the city — its waters.
Four Seasons Hangzhou Centre
Address: 493 Zhongshan North Road, Xia Cheng Qu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China, 310005
Website: www.fourseasons.com/hangzhoucentre/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/FourSeasons
Instagram: www.instagram.com/fshangzhoucentre/