Shangri-La launches new luxury brand with opening of The Silk Lakehouse in Hangzhou

The flagship hotel, set on West Lake, introduces Shangri-La Signatures – a new concept in culturally immersive, design-led hospitality

Shangri-La Group has officially launched a new ultra-luxury brand, Shangri-La Signatures, with the opening of its first property, The Silk Lakehouse in Hangzhou, China. Situated on the shores of West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the hotel marks a new direction for the group, offering a design-driven and culturally rich interpretation of Asian hospitality.

Described as a modern reimagining of a traditional Jiangnan silk merchant’s residence, The Silk Lakehouse blends Eastern aesthetics with contemporary design. The property was brought to life by designers Gert Voorjans and Lázaro Rosa-Violán, with interiors that incorporate artistic details and local craftsmanship – most notably a large-scale Murano glass installation in the lobby, intended to reflect the willow-lined shores of the lake.

The hotel occupies the site of the former Xiling Hotel, a property once used for state visits. Several cultural elements from the original site have been preserved and reinterpreted, including a 1971 sculpture by artisan Zhou Jinyun, originally commissioned to welcome U.S. President Richard Nixon. The new build also continues Shangri-La’s connection to the city, where it first opened a hotel in Mainland China in 1984.

The Silk Lakehouse features 68 rooms and suites, with views over the lake or private gardens. Guest rooms include modern comforts such as freestanding bathtubs, AI-responsive mattresses, and in-room wellness amenities. A dedicated Personal Host Programme is also offered, with tailored cultural experiences such as tea ceremonies, seal carving and silk weaving.

Dining venues include The Living Room by Alan Yu, a European-inspired concept led by the Michelin-starred chef; Golden Silk, which highlights regional Chinese cuisine; and a Tea House inspired by Song Dynasty rituals. A cocktail bar, The Living Room by SANYOU, has been developed in collaboration with Asia’s 50 Best Bars awardee San You.

Wellness offerings include a grotto-style indoor pool, guided meditation, Tai Chi sessions, and sunrise yoga, all designed to complement the retreat-like atmosphere of the lakeside location.

As the first in the Shangri-La Signatures collection, The Silk Lakehouse introduces a more personal and design-focused direction for the brand, positioning itself as both a cultural retreat and a luxurious home-away-from-home.

shangri-la.com/hangzhou/thesilklakehouse