A dramatic staircase connects floors inside this Shanghai hotel, which Neri&Hu has designed with calming, nature-inspired rooms.
The staircase can be found in the entrance lobby of The Sukhothai hotel, which is situated in Shanghai's Jing'an district.
A huge staircase is the focal point of The Sukhothai's lobby. Photo is by Pedro Pegenaute
It features a bronze balustrade and a staggered sequence of slim, grey-terrazzo steps that have been slightly set apart to create the illusion that they're hovering.
The entire structure is then enclosed by a gridded timber framework that "envelops" guests as they ascend to the first floor.
Bronze has been used to make the balustrade, while the steps are grey terrazzo
In the communal areas that lie beyond the staircase, Neri&Hu has fashioned an aesthetic that subtly celebrates the culture of both Shanghai and Bangkok ? where the inaugural branch of The Sukhothai is located. "The challenge for Sukhothai in Shanghai was how to remain true to the spirit of the original iconic hotel in Bangkok while bringing in elements that represent the local culture and history," the studio explained.
Green hues reference nature and gardens. Photo is by Pedro Pegenaute
"In the end, our guiding concept was inspired by a universal condition that defines many dense Asian metropolises such as Shanghai and Bangkok ? the sense of fragility and congestion and the desire for a reconnection with nature, for room to breathe and rejuv...