W Hotels has unveiled W Shanghai – The Bund, located in the heart of one of the world’s most energetic cities. 

With views overlooking the Huangpu River, W Shanghai will set the scene on the North Bund. 

Owned by Sinar Mas Group, the hotel features a blend of bold design and decadent style which combines to create a captivating contrast of Shanghai’s past and its avant-garde present.

“Shanghai is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, and its engaging nightlife, spirited fashion scene and passion for what’s new/next makes it an ideal destination for the W brand,” said Anthony Ingham, global brand leader, W Hotels Worldwide.

“Our hotels across the world are incredibly unique- each reinterpreting its destination through design that is both hyper-local and yet, clearly W.

“The electrifying design of W Shanghai – The Bund is no exception, solidifying its position as a global flagship for W that is sure to attract both guests and savvy locals alike.”

Designed by the acclaimed G.A Design, the hotel showcases an exciting combination of historic and modern influences, such as Hai Pai – the art of combining the old and the new, East and West. 

This is evident in both the hotel’s location, perfectly positioned between the Suzhou Creek and the Huangpu River, as well as the surrounding locale, where Art Deco buildings sit alongside opulent Chinese mansions.

W Shanghai – The Bund draws upon colonial glamour and futuristic motifs, with nearly all guestrooms featuring views of the Huangpu River due to the uniquely curved frame of the building’s edifice.

“Over the past few years we have seen incredible growth worldwide across our brands, with the China market becoming increasingly important for Marriott International,” said Stephen Ho, chief executive, Greater China, Marriott International.

“The opening of the W Shanghai – The Bund underscores the ambitious expansion of Marriott International’s Luxury Brands in Greater China.”

Upon arrival, guests will be greeted by neon light installations throughout the hotel’s Living Room (the W brand’s take on the staid hotel lobby). 

For centuries, Shanghai-locals have honoured the Lilong tradition, in which wet laundry is hung on lines to dry at varying heights down narrow laneways. 

This installation was designed as a modern reinterpretation of this classic scene.

The Welcome Desk (reception area) features a kaleidoscopic fixture, mirroring the constant flow of guests through the area. 

W Shanghai – The Bund features 374 stylish guestrooms and suites, each appointed with the signature W bed adorned with a cheeky pillow in the shape of Shanghai’s famous Xiaolongbao (soup) dumpling and chopsticks.

“We are infusing so much energy into this city with W Shanghai – The Bund,” said Christian Humbert, general manager, W Shanghai – The Bund.

“We are bringing guests closer to the music, design, fashion and Fuel (the brand’s take on fitness) scenes in Shanghai while providing our signature Whatever/Whenever service, delivering whatever guests want, whenever they want it, in this incredible city.”