De.Tales and MMA Projects, both international architecture and interior design studios, in collaboration with GALA China, presents the interior design project for the 5-star Hotel & Residences Radisson Collection Lingang Shanghai. The entire real estate complex covers a total area of 46,700 square meters and includes 462 units, with five-star hotel rooms and apartments. It serves the new free trade zone of Shanghai, directly connected to the new Top Technology Convention Center and close to major technological, recreational, and commercial attractions.
The project encompassed the entire interior design of the structure, where MMA Projects’ focus was on the common areas: the extensive lobby, the service areas, the elevator lobbies of the common areas, the many restaurants, the tea room, the pool, the gym, and the spa. Meanwhile, De.Tales focuses on the hotel rooms and residences, the presidential suite and executive lounge, the corridors, and the elevator lobbies on the guest room floors.
The leitmotif uniting the two studios is the slow flow, whose design concept draws inspiration from the ocean and the galaxy. The natural line floating through space and leaving a delicate mark on the interiors represents anarchitectural journey that guides guests through different scenarios, with a perfect blend of Italian and Chinese culture.
As a shelter for hotel and residences, the building harmoniously integrates with the urban structure, drawing metaphorical inspiration from concentric waves created by a drop falling into the water. Reflecting this imagery, the service facilities are organized in concentric rings radiating outward from Dishui Lake: from the promenade, through the densely packed commercial district, to the circular city park - which includes isolated public buildings -, and finally to the residential neighborhoods. The urban ring between the lakeside promenade and the green belt, along with the commercial district, serves as the beating heart of city life. Here, offices, shops, arcades, pedestrian areas, and dense residential spaces coexist.
The idea of community and public squares as social hubs inspires the creation of a relaxed design: the 5-star hotel and residences provide a welcoming space, ideal for those seeking to live and share a unique experience. The interiors reflect the architectural lines of the buildings, ensuring uniformity and cohesion throughout the project. Principles like spatial continuity, hierarchical organization, and focus on symmetry forge a strong connection between the exterior and interior spaces.
MMA Projects focused on the common areas, specifically: the grand 19-meter-high main lobby, all service areas and elevator lobbies, many restaurants, the tea room, the pool, the gym, and the spa.
The design of the expansive main lobby aimed to scale down the immense dimensions to a human scale and enrich the space. Using curved bronze "screens" as decorative panels, both solid and perforated, was a notable aesthetic choice because they create diverse visual effects from different viewpoints. Given the impressive entrance size, the space was envisioned as a dynamic element: a walkway vertically divides the water feature, forming a central focal point with a fountain and a large stone reception desk. This walkway allows guests to cross the area and reach the piano bar area, where seating is positioned below the walkway level, creating the sensation of immersion in a pool.
The leitmotif of "slow flow" is prominently showcased in the pool area, where curved and rounded shapes not only define the furniture but also the overall spatial arrangement. The pool area features a ceiling crafted from curved wooden slats that cover the water basin. Surrounding walls are lined with intricately perforated travertine partitions, allowing light to filter through, creating a backdrop of sparkling lights.
The Chinese Restaurant is the final space to highlight, offering public and private areas. In the private section, the curvature of the ceiling is accentuated by a series of undulating elements reminiscent of river pebbles. In contrast, in the public section, these gentle elements integrate into illuminated ceilings positioned above each table. Precious marbles adorn both the extensive round tables, accommodating up to 20 people, and the floor, where the curved motifs echo those on the ceiling.
In the Radisson Collection Lingang Shanghai project, light plays a fundamental role, with lighting elements conceived as floating luminous clouds that impart elegance, dynamism, and luxury to the space. The expansive triple-height hall features sweeping wings and pillars clad entirely in alabaster travertine, complemented by a floor adorned with an interweaving of curved lines crafted from various exquisite marbles. Predominantly, precious stones, bronze, and wood are used as primary materials.
De.Tales' interior design approach is focused on creating fluid spaces with a contemporary, refined, essential, and functional style; catering to work, meetings, and relaxation; offering a comprehensive and tailored travel experience. Each area is designed for versatile use, with open flows that adapt intuitively to guests' needs—a layered, multidimensional environment capable of transforming throughout the day. Natural elements integrated into the project enhance the perception and ambiance of the space, creating a comfortable and relaxing environment for its occupants.
For the hotel rooms and residences, De.Tales designed environments characterized by soft structures welcoming interior solutions defined by finishes reflecting Italian style and quality. The corridors, elevators, and elevator lobbies of both the hotel and residences feature linear, elegant pathways leading to the rooms.
The hotel's Presidential Suite embodies institutional elegance suitable for an international clientele, embracing design that offers full spatial openness, contemporary flair, intricate details, and stunning views of Dishui Lake.
The Executive Lounge, with its sinuous lines and functional spaces tailored for business clients, is designed to enhance interactions and visual appeal across different environments."The interior design approach at Radisson Collection Lingang Shanghai emphasizes creating fluid and permeable spaces, combining refined yet essential and functional style to provide a comprehensive and tailored travel experience." - Igor Rebosio and Giuseppe Varsavia, Design Director and Managing Director of De.Tales.
