Project: Xi’an Lyf Hotel
Architecture: Shenzhen 31Design
Lead Architects: Huang Tao, Li Zhihong
Design Team: Li Donghui, Lin Qingliang, Li Sijie, Zou Haiying
Location: Xi’an, Shanxi, China
Area: 11170 m2
Year: 2023
Photo Credits: QIWEN, XIAO Xiang, Xi’an Chasing Light Real Estate
In response to the growing demand for experiential living and creative workspaces among millennials, Shenzhen 31Design, in collaboration with Singapore’s Ascott Group, has crafted a unique space at the lyf Luoyifang Hotel in Xi’an. This project, situated in the vibrant “Great Tang All Day Mall” within Xi’an’s core business district, stands as a beacon of innovative design that merges the rich cultural heritage of the city with the dynamic and fashionable essence of the lyf brand.
Celebrating Cultural Heritage and Urban Modernity
Creative Director Huang Tao led the design team in blending Xi’an’s deep historical roots with the brand’s youthful energy. The result is a space that reflects millennial culture while paying homage to the city’s legacy as the ancient capital of thirteen dynasties. Inspired by the “New Ideas from the Ancient Tang Dynasty,” the design narrative captures the essence of wandering through Xi’an’s historic West Market, where East meets West in a vibrant exchange of cultures.
The hotel’s interior is a masterful fusion of traditional and contemporary elements. The use of koi motifs, symbolic of good fortune in the Tang Dynasty, and the integration of Tang-inspired architectural forms with modern amenities, create a space that is both nostalgic and forward-looking.
Designing for Connection and Community
At its core, the Xi’an Lyf Hotel is designed to foster a sense of community among its guests. The layout encourages interaction through communal spaces such as shared kitchens, restaurants, and co-working areas. The hotel’s design empowers social engagement by creating environments that invite guests to connect, share, and explore. The creative use of maps and historical references throughout the rooms encourages guests to venture out and discover the cultural richness of Xi’an, further enhancing their experience.
Balancing Art and Commerce
One of the most challenging aspects of the design was striking a balance between artistic expression and commercial functionality. Shenzhen 31Design tackled this by seamlessly integrating art into the fabric of the hotel, ensuring it is not just decorative but an essential part of the guest experience. The use of koi characters, each with its own unique personality, adds a playful yet meaningful touch, resonating with the millennial desire for spaces that are both fun and culturally significant.
A New Benchmark in Hotel Design
Xi’an Lyf Hotel sets a new standard for hotel design by combining the allure of ancient culture with the needs and desires of a modern, global audience. Through a thoughtful blend of history, art, and innovative design, Shenzhen 31Design has created a space that not only serves as a hotel but as a cultural experience, offering guests a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the spirit of Xi’an.
