Luoyang is one of the ancient capitals of China, located in the central province of Henan, a challenge to BLVD cofounder and creative director Liu Honglei, whose Shenzen and Beijing-based firm imbued the Hyatt Place with a sleek, modern design and a sense of history.
Guests arrive at a sixth-floor sky lobby, which combines the reception and bar in one long counter, a device that pulls the linear space together and encourages business and leisure travelers to meet and socialize with ease.
A checkerboard floor in wood and stone, wood-paneled walls, and ambient lighting concealed in a metal-louvered drop ceiling “create a feeling of warmth,” says Liu. A clean, relaxed environment is achieved with “dark, copper tiles and textured glass” for an “earthy architectural foundation into which subtle textures and sculptural forms are layered.” Transparent pivoting screens help maintain the connection between the different spaces.
The reception area morphs into an expansive lounge where comfortable seating, colorful carpets, playful lighting fixtures, and floor-to-ceiling artworks combine to create a lively atmosphere. Beyond is a coffee shop, indoor pool, and fitness center. Four meeting rooms open off a naturally lit prefunction area.
There’s an easy flow of space in the public areas and a pleasing diversity in the décor and the interplay of light and shadow. Soft-toned corridors lead to the 250 guestrooms and suites, which are models of functional design. By keeping furniture low, the rooms appear even larger than they are with a generous, well-lit work surface extending from a storage unit.
“Dark gray and warm orange tones evoke the historic legacy of Luoyang, while nodding to contemporary fashion,” explains Liu. “The gray is taken from the Longmen Grottoes with their stacked eaves and serried roof tiles, while the orange was inspired by Tang Sancai ceramic art depicting the spirits of emperors of the 13 dynasties.” This sense of discovery starts in the lobby and extends throughout the hotel, she says, encouraging guests to explore Jingu Garden and beyond.
