This is an adaptive reuse project on a building that was initially designed and built for a lower-standard hotel brand. The initial developer went into bankruptcy and the building had been sitting uncompleted for several years. It was bought out by a more confident developer and he wanted to upgrade it to a 5-star hotel.

The project is located by the Hai River in central Tianjin. The new owner hired SAAN to redo the interior, put on a new building envelope, and gut in a brand-new lobby. Modifications to the building’s structural elements are explored but quickly avoided. The MEP system is redesigned. Guest rooms are upgraded to their original sizes and dimensions. All ballrooms and restaurants are redone. The design department of Marco Polo offered design advice, and the back-of-house flow is improved and will work well with the new operator.

Facade Design emphasizes the fluidity of curtainwall and the lightness of the building volumes. Modernity is expressed in simplicity and elegance. Marble stone is used to highlight the new entry lobby and the building skirt. Bands of grey translucent glass screens intend to block sun glare and add centrality to the main facade.

Our lighting designers added a new striking lighting scheme that will help the hotel announce its rebirth and new grandeur during the night hours in the city.
