Hyatt Hotels Corporation has finally opened the doors of Alila Shanghai, redefining the boundaries of luxury hospitality with a resort-style retreat in the vibrant urban landscape of Greater China within the Jing’an area. As the first of its kind in the region, this distinguished property marries the brand’s signature ethos of eco-luxury with the pulse of metropolitan life in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

Here, the allure of Shanghai’s bustling streets meets the serene elegance of Alila’s design philosophy, creating an oasis where the spirit of discovery is seamlessly intertwined with relaxation.

Design

Offering exclusive private access to Zhangyuan, a complex of restored shikumen stone-gate townhouses transformed into luxury retail spaces, Alila Shanghai is designed by acclaimed interior designer Ju Bin and tastefully takes on the time-honoured Shanghainese architectural style. It sustains the city’s cultural influence, while also creating havens of understated elegance through pops of colour and modern amenities.

Natural materials such as hewn stone, timber marquetry, rattan detailing, and paper louvers, are combined with a neutral colour palette and lush greenery to modernise certain elements, transporting guests to a tranquil, nature-infused luxury stay.

Arrival

Step into a space of clarity and calm as you peel yourself away from the city’s non-stop action and notice a palpable change in mood. A canopy of trees drapes over the driveway approaching the property, flanked by dry stone walls leading to the grand entrance featuring a wall of water, cobblestone paving, and a barrel-vaulted, rattan-like ceiling.

Upon arriving at the lobby, guests will find themselves enveloped in a landscaped sanctuary inspired by Shanghai’s classical gardens as they feast their eyes on a striking 17-foot-high ‘Gathering’ tree adorned with stainless steel and Jingdezhen ceramic leaves, designed by local artist Oscar Wang.

Wellness and Culture

At Spa Alila, guests are welcomed to surrender their stresses with customised holistic treatments rooted in the healing and wellness attributes of nature. With signature treatments highlighting the goodness of all-natural ingredients, the spa consists of five treatment rooms, a Turkish bath, and a soothing relaxation space. Guests also have access to premium daily fitness facilities, an individual yoga room, and unique programmes aimed at connecting them with Shanghai’s cultural heritage via collaborations with local artisans.

Stay

Alila Shanghai comprises 186 guest rooms, including 94 suites, all incorporating natural finishes and textures, as well as Shanghai-inspired detailing, from textured glass reminiscent of vintage window frames to bold flooring akin to tiles from historic mansions. Entry-level rooms measure 419 square feet and feature a sizeable lounge, walk-in wardrobe, bar nook, and dressing table area, whereas the 2,626-square-foot Penthouse Suite King affords breathtaking views of the Shanghai cityscape, along with a stylish marble-lined bathroom with an elliptical bath.

Dine

The property houses four bars and restaurants, each offering a varied wellness-oriented culinary experience showcasing authentic native flavours under the lead of Executive Chef Chuck Xing. All restaurants adhere to a farm-to-table concept, presenting fresh, seasonal, and sustainable local produce while the accompanying wine lists feature selections from boutique vintners. Every dining experience honours local food traditions as well as the community that makes it possible, served to guests with a creative twist while retaining the regional legacy alive.

500 Weihai Road is Alila Shanghai’s flagship Chinese restaurant led by Chef de Cuisine Scott Bao, who has formerly helmed Michelin-starred restaurants, presenting plant-forward dishes from vegetables grown in the hotel’s garden as well as modern Shanghainese cuisine focused on seafood. Garden Pavilion, on the other hand, is the hotel’s all-day dining space built around a Japanese maple tree. Breakfasts involve curated sets featuring Chinese, Japanese, Western, or ‘healthy’ options instead of the usual buffet.

Guests can also indulge in an exquisite afternoon tea at Chayan @ 5th that comprises a range of residential-style living spaces ideal for connecting, or head to the Secret Roof, a premier rooftop bar, for exceptional tipples, outstanding sundowner views, and an ambiance that is both sophisticated and welcoming. The bar, which dishes out brewed organic coffee and light snacks by day, is flanked by open-air terraces that showcase phenomenal views over the historical Zhangyuan rooftops.

Meetings and Events

From intimate meetings and private dinners to extravagant weddings, galas, and cocktail parties, the hotel’s cumulative, versatile 3,282 square feet event space has the capacity to host a wide range of occasions. Select from diverse venue options, such as an open-air terrace and five elegant function rooms replete with natural light.

To commemorate the first Urban Alila Resort-style hotel in Greater China, members of World of Hyatt can earn 500 Bonus Points for qualifying nights at Alila Shanghai from September 25, 2024 to December 31, 2024, as part of its new hotel member offer. Additional participating hotels and their offer stay periods can be found at worldofhyatt.com/newhotelbonus.

For more information on Alila and the brand’s various eco-luxury resorts worldwide, access www.alilahotels.com.

Images courtesy of Alila