The Langham Hotel, Hong Kong is beginning the first phase of the transformation of its 495 guestrooms this month. Four floors will be renovated this year, converting 150 guest rooms into “Grand Rooms” that will be finely appointed while providing a warm, residential ambience. The USc million renovation by Andy Tait of LRF Design includes a total redesign of room layouts, all new furniture, ornate bathrooms, linens, drapery, artwork and the addition of state-of the-art technology.

The entire project will span three years. The first phase of the renovation will be completed in October 2007, while the second and third phases will begin in 2008 and 2009 respectively.

Currently, guestrooms have the feel of a traditional, upscale hotel. However, the redesign will infuse many contemporary design themes, including silk draperies and throw pillows, Chinese gold leaf artwork and other artworks depicting old photographic images of Tsim Sha Tsui. Walls will be paneled with both burled timber and textured cream colored leather while ornate wool carpets will be set into hardwood floors. High-tech amenities such as 37” plasma TVs and Nortel IP phones will also be included.

The bathrooms are being completely remodeled to have a more spa-like feeling. Deep soaking tubs have been positioned next to wooden louver doors, which can be opened so that guests may watch TV from the bath. There is also a separate, spacious glass-enclosed shower stall. Floor to ceiling cream-colored marble gives the bathroom a refined and calming feel, while an elegant porcelain bowl sink sitting upon a marble countertop is a modern design trend, but typifies old-world elegance.
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