In a bold move to redefine the parameters of luxury hospitality, Shangri-La Group has introduced a new high-end brand, Shangri-La Signatures, marking its debut with the opening of The Silk Lakehouse in Hangzhou, China. Positioned on the historic banks of West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site, this latest initiative reflects the company’s dedication to personalized guest experiences, immersive storytelling, and sophisticated design. With the launch of this brand, Shangri-La not only enhances its already robust portfolio but also sets the stage for a new tier of hospitality driven by elegance, heritage, and cultural authenticity.

Introducing Shangri-La Signatures: An Ultra-Luxury Concept

The launch of Shangri-La Signatures signals a strategic evolution for the Shangri-La Group. This brand is designed to offer an intimate, private-residence-style experience, with curated aesthetics and bespoke service that distinguish it from traditional luxury hotel formats.

Unlike standardized hospitality offerings, Signatures properties will incorporate tailored interior design by globally acclaimed architects, as well as cultural touchpoints through collaborations with local artisans. These spaces aim to feel less like a hotel and more like a luxurious retreat, catering to discerning travelers seeking exclusivity, wellness immersion, and gastronomic refinement.

The Silk Lakehouse, Hangzhou: Where Legacy Meets Modernity

At the heart of this new chapter is The Silk Lakehouse, nestled on the banks of West Lake. The property boasts 68 meticulously designed rooms that channel the architectural ethos of a Jiangnan merchant’s home. Esteemed Belgian designer Gert Voorjans, in collaboration with Spanish visionary Lazaro Rosa-Violan, has created a fusion of Eastern heritage and contemporary flair.

Built on the historic grounds of the former Xiling Hotel, the location is steeped in political and cultural significance. One notable heritage artifact incorporated into the hotel is the sculpture Autumn in Yandang Mountain Ou, originally installed to commemorate the visit of former U.S. President Richard Nixon. The preservation and reinterpretation of such features underscore the brand’s commitment to authenticity and storytelling.

Strategic Expansion Rooted in Legacy

The Hangzhou opening is not a standalone event—it’s a natural continuation of Shangri-La’s long-standing engagement in China. The group’s roots in the country date back to 1984, when it launched its first property in the same region. Since then, the brand has grown its footprint significantly under banners such as Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, Kerry Hotels, JEN, and Traders.

The addition of the Signatures brand allows Shangri-La to deepen its market penetration at the ultra-luxury level, offering a distinctive product differentiation in the crowded premium hospitality segment.

Recent Openings and Upcoming Projects

Shangri-La’s growth narrative is not confined to China. In late 2024, the company opened its first hotel in Cambodia, with a 303-room property in Phnom Penh. Located at the confluence of the Mekong, Tonle Sap, and Tonle Bassac rivers, the hotel offers sweeping panoramic views and positions the brand prominently in the Indochinese market.

Further expanding its regional footprint, the group is poised to launch a dual-branded project at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport, combining a Shangri-La Hotel and a Traders Hotel—an approach that targets diverse market segments within a single hub.

Additionally, the brand is nearing completion of a mixed-use complex in Kunming, which will house a Shangri-La branded hotel, serviced apartments, and a retail mall—integrating hospitality with urban living.

Future Openings: A Robust Pipeline

Looking ahead, Shangri-La’s expansion strategy includes strategically placed luxury properties in both emerging and mature markets:

Shangri-La Hotel Bahrain Marina (2026): This ambitious development will feature 304 suites and waterfront villas, bringing the brand to the Gulf in a landmark waterfront location.

Shangri-La Kyoto Nijo Castle (Autumn 2026): Situated near another UNESCO World Heritage site, this 150-room hotel will be the group’s second in Japan, reinforcing its commitment to the Japanese market following the success of Shangri-La Tokyo.

A Forward-Thinking Vision for Luxury Hospitality

With the unveiling of Shangri-La Signatures, the group has taken a definitive step into the ultra-luxury realm, targeting elite travelers with a taste for experiential, artful stays. The debut of The Silk Lakehouse exemplifies a shift in hospitality where legacy, narrative, and personalization are becoming as important as amenities and location.

By seamlessly integrating design excellence, cultural heritage, and strategic regional expansion, Shangri-La is positioning itself not just as a hotel operator, but as a curator of lifestyle and culture. Its forward-looking developments across Asia and the Middle East suggest a blueprint that many luxury brands may soon follow.