Journeying through cities along the fabled Silk Road for this issue, it was time for some rest and relaxation. What better place to find it than the Lanson Place Hotel Causeway Bay, an oasis of calm and chic in the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong.
Words by Alton Hetariki.
Arriving at the hotel was like balm to the soul. Hushed tranquillity descended, the fragrant freshly-cut flowers, the warm reception team greeting you in front of the graceful bas-relief by artist Michele Létang depicting storks in motion, the Murano glass chandelier with delicate softened curves and the calming colour palette of the lobby––all hinting at art deco with French distinction.
All this is a pleasing contrast to Causeway Bay just outside, the beating heart of Hong Kong retail, thrumming with malls, shops and markets. Tucked away in a secluded spot away from the crowds, yet only a short stroll from Times Square and Causeway Bay MTR, the hotel’s grand reopening was earlier this year in March after an extensive 16-month renovation. Re-imagined by famed Parisian designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, known for his work at some of the world’s most coveted hotels (think Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, the St. Regis Rome and Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris), he blends understated elegance with delicate craftsmanship to create a serene, sophisticated atmosphere.
The hotel exudes restrained European luxury in a city known for its glitz. The refined guest rooms employ soft furnishings in soothing tones inspired by the Côte d’Azur––pastel blue, Dijon yellow and celadon green. Floor-to-ceiling windows illuminate the room with natural light, offering panoramic views of the cityscape and the lush greenery of Victoria Park. “The renovation respects the DNA of this institution, which is both a private and personal hotel and a sanctuary amid Hong Kong’s hustle and bustle,” says Rochon. “[T]he key principle has been to respect the property’s soul, creating a timeless address with a character inspired by nature, the allure of France’s southern coast, and the richness of the art deco period.”
The overall effect is elegant yet homey, and the attention to detail is exceptional, beginning with a pillow menu that includes an astonishing choice of 11 pillows during the stay. Holistic essential oils to relax and refresh are left on pillows as part of the turn-down service. The rooms come equipped with an espresso coffee maker for freshly brewed coffee, a Dyson hair dryer and air purifier, and Ruark speakers for your favourite playlists.
The amenities for the room can be controlled via smartphone. These personal touches help distinguish Lanson Place from the more generic international hotels in Hong Kong, every little personalized service geared to making guests feel at home away from home. The whole experience is enhanced by the ultra-hospitable concierge team, whose amiability and problem-solving skills were invaluable during our stay.
Situated on the first floor is the Salon Lanson, where a grand Venetian chandelier sets the tone. Custom-built 1950s-inspired furniture and original artworks accentuate the space, arranged into a series of three ‘rooms’ for guests to lounge with friends or individually. This space serves breakfast in the mornings and becomes a lounge later in the afternoon. The semi-buffet breakfast menu leans towards a European palette but also offers a simpler range of local breakfasts, such as velvety congee and delicate dim-sum offerings. At sunset, Salon Lanson transforms into a chic cocktail lounge offering a rotating selection of cocktail tipples, the perfect lubricant to whet your appetite before you head out into the blinking neon lights of the city that never sleeps.
Discover this piece inside the Hong Kong Chapter at The Silk Road Issue 12
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