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The Vascos restaurant draws inspiration from the Chinese region of macau
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As a result, the hotel had to be opened within a year, from design to completion, according to Kwan, which resulted in an incredibly intensive design-build process. “[It was done] through good old hard work,” comments Kwan.

As with so many projects taking place today, sustainability was also a key consideration. In addition to the use of local materials, the team selected carbon-
neutral or recycled products where possible, along with energy efficient fittings.

SETTING THE TREND
In addition to being in keeping with Hilton’s luxury ethos, the high-end design of the hotel was a direct response to the expectations of consumers, Kwan explained. “So-called ‘design’ is now accessible to all, from designer kitchen utensils to designer iPods. A few years ago, boutique hotels were unique, but now they’re expected.”

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As a result, Wilson Associates had to ensure that the interior design exceeded public expectations. “In the past, a hotel was theatre. Now it has to contain drama. Where it was a country palace, it is now a chic mansion in a capital city. Wilson Associates has redefined the idea of an urban hotel to one of serene sophistication,” says Kwan.

According to Kwan, the hotel is at the “leading edge of hospitality design”. Noteable design features include dual fireplaces in the lobby, which create the theatrical element that Kwan speaks of, while a 4m sculpture of dowagers create drama. “The hotel makes ‘über-design’ accessible to all.” 

High quality and appealing interior design is critical to the prestige of any hotel, Kwan points out. “The design of any hotel is integral to its appeal, especially at this price point,” he says.

As a result, the design for the Hilton was pitched in a way that made it familiar and accessible, but also generated a sense of exclusivity and a unique ‘feel’, depending on the nature of the traveller.

“The residential approach is universal and, furthermore, familiar to all,” says Kwan. “The positioning of the hotel as a high-end, luxurious yet serene hotel gives the business traveller his own ‘mansion’ to come home to after a long day of meetings, like a lord. For the leisure traveller, the hotel gives him a beautiful ‘villa’ from which he can explore the city. This appeal is priceless.”