The Sukhothai Shanghai, The Tradition of Modernity
Shanghai is a city where the past and future coexist, where gleaming skyscrapers stand tall beside ancient temples and winding alleys. This vibrant metropolis pulses with an energy that feels both exhilarating and continuous. But within this dynamic rhythm, The Sukhothai Shanghai offers a rare kind of retreat—where time slows down and luxury is intertwined with culture and design. It is not merely a hotel; it is an immersive experience, a place where the fast-paced modernity of Shanghai meets the tranquil heritage of Thailand, all within a setting that speaks to a global sensibility.
An Invitation to Disconnect and Connect
Stepping into The Sukhothai Shanghai, part of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH), feels like entering a space suspended between worlds. Here, the buzz of the city fades away as you enter a realm that feels both an escape and a connection. The hotel's design reflects this duality—modern Shanghai’s bold energy and the peaceful cultural depth of Thailand. The architectural lines evoke the ancient beauty of Sukhothai, the birthplace of Siam, while the clean, minimalist forms reflect the cosmopolitan spirit of Shanghai. The result is a space that balances past and future, stillness and movement, offering a retreat that is both calming and inspiring. The hotel’s logo—22 diamond droplets inspired by Sukhothai's chedi—symbolizes individuality and unity, a reminder of the attentive, personalized service that defines every moment.
The Architecture of Emotions
What truly distinguishes The Sukhothai Shanghai is its ability to merge art, design, and ambiance into a cohesive experience. The collaboration with TeamLab, famous for their immersive digital art installations, transforms the hotel into a living, breathing canvas. As you move through the space, the walls come alive with shifting patterns and colors, creating a dynamic atmosphere that engages all your senses. The digital art is not merely decorative; it becomes part of the hotel's identity, enhancing the connection between the physical space and the emotions it evokes.
The hotel’s atmosphere is enriched by a selection of sounds and music that reflect a global sensibility. In its dining spaces, the music is a reflection of the diverse, world-class culinary offerings that draw inspiration from all corners of the globe. From the understated elegance of Thai-inspired dishes to the refined Italian fare, each restaurant experience is accompanied by a soundtrack that complements the cuisine, reflecting both the cultural depth of the offerings and the sophisticated, international flair of the space. Here, luxury is not just in the aesthetic or service—it is in the harmony of all the elements coming together to create an environment that feels global, elevated, and profoundly connected to the world outside.
The Rooms: An Immersive Escape in the Heart of Shanghai
Each room at The Sukhothai Shanghai is more than just a space to sleep; it is an immersive experience where design, comfort, and tranquility intertwine. The rooms are carefully crafted to provide not only a place of rest but also a haven that adapts to the needs of every guest, offering the perfect environment for both relaxation and inspiration.
Executive Room
The Executive Room blends elegance with practicality, offering a calming space for both work and relaxation. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide stunning views of the Shanghai skyline, while the minimalist design invites comfort and ease for both business and leisure stays.Premier Room
Spacious and serene, the Premier Room features large windows that fill the room with natural light and offer panoramic city views. Its minimalist design and refined furnishings create a peaceful, sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for unwinding in luxury.Studio Room
The Studio Room combines living and sleeping areas in an open-plan layout, offering a spacious, contemporary feel. With sleek design elements and ample space, it’s ideal for guests seeking a comfortable, functional environment.Executive Suite
The Executive Suite exudes luxury with its spacious living area and separate bedroom. The sleek furnishings and warm tones create an inviting, peaceful ambiance, ideal for both relaxation and work, ensuring effortless comfort throughout your stay.Premier Suite
The 124-square-meter Premier Suite offers the perfect blend of comfort and luxury with its seamless design. The open-plan space includes living, dining, and sleeping areas, all featuring modern furnishings and refined aesthetics for an elevated Shanghai experience.Signature Suite
The Signature Suite, spanning over 170 square meters, is the epitome of luxury. It features a spacious living area, intimate dining space, and serene bedroom, offering ultimate comfort and style for those seeking a lavish Shanghai lifestyle experience.
Dining: A Culinary Journey Through Art and Flavor
The Sukhothai Shanghai’s dining options offer an experience that is as much about art and ambiance as it is about flavor. The restaurants and bars are crafted to create a holistic dining experience, where food, design, and atmosphere come together in perfect harmony.
Urban Café: With its verdant, garden-like atmosphere, the Urban Café offers a menu that celebrates Thai cuisine with a contemporary twist. Here, traditional dishes are presented with fresh, modern flair, using local ingredients and spices from Thailand. The restaurant's soothing environment allows for an immersive dining experience, where every bite is an exploration of sensory pleasure.
The URBAN Lounge's Gin Library, where an extraordinary collection of 350 gins and herbal drinks serves as an engaging guide to an unparalleled experience. Whether you’re a gin aficionado or simply curious, the Gin Library provides a truly unique opportunity to explore a variety of flavors and aromas, offering a personalized journey through the world of herbal spirits. This impressive collection is more than just a selection—it’s a carefully curated experience that adds to the hotel’s international flair, making it a destination for guests who seek something truly exceptional.
La Scala: Offering artful Italian cuisine, La Scala combines the best of contemporary and traditional cooking. Drawing on Italy’s rich culinary heritage, the restaurant infuses classic Italian dishes with modern interpretations. The elegant setting, with its sleek design and fine attention to detail, complements the exquisite flavors and beautifully presented plates. La Scala is perfect for those seeking an elevated dining experience in Shanghai.
The Zuk Bar: This chic terrace bar blends indoor and outdoor spaces to create a relaxed yet stylish setting for socializing. The menu features light bites, tapas, and refreshing cocktails, all served in a charming, garden-inspired environment. Whether you're enjoying a casual drink or an intimate gathering, The Zuk Bar brings a touch of relaxed sophistication to your evening.
Beans & Grapes: For those looking for something quick yet healthy, Beans & Grapes offers fresh, organic snacks, coffees, and juices. It’s the perfect spot to grab a healthy bite before exploring Shanghai or to simply enjoy a quiet moment away from the bustle of the city.
Wellness: Restoring Harmony Between Body, Mind, and Spirit
The Sukhothai Shanghai offers a comprehensive wellness experience designed to balance the body and mind. The spa, fitness center, and wellness programs are all centered around restoring equilibrium, ensuring guests leave feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.
The Retreat: The spa at The Sukhothai Shanghai, known as The Retreat, provides a tranquil environment where nature and luxury converge. With five treatment suites named after special plants, each therapy room feels like a peaceful garden. Guests can indulge in signature treatments, including Thai massages, facials, and body therapies, all designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. The space itself, with its warm wooden details and serene ambiance, helps to promote relaxation and renewal.
Fitness Studio: The 198-square-meter fitness studio is fully equipped with modern exercise machines and free weights, making it perfect for both cardio and strength training. A dedicated yoga and Pilates studio offers private or group sessions to enhance flexibility and mindfulness. The wellness offerings here cater to those seeking balance through both physical fitness and mental clarity.
Swimming Pool: The 25-meter heated indoor pool is the ultimate place for relaxation or fitness. With its tranquil setting, guests can swim laps, relax in the sauna, or unwind in the steam room. The pool is designed to provide both rejuvenation and a serene atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a busy day.
Sound Therapy: Unique to The Sukhothai Shanghai, sound therapy is an immersive experience that uses the resonant sound of bowls and gongs to promote deep relaxation. The therapy works on a cellular level, helping to release tension and cleanse the mind. It’s a powerful way to achieve mental clarity and emotional balance, offering guests a one-of-a-kind wellness experience.
An Ideal Stay at The Sukhothai Shanghai
Imagine stepping into a sanctuary where every detail is crafted for your comfort. You’re greeted with a warm, intuitive service that immediately makes you feel at home. Your room, a perfect balance of modern luxury and Thai-inspired design, offers sweeping views of Shanghai’s skyline through floor-to-ceiling windows. After a peaceful rest, you begin your day with a tailored wellness experience, perhaps a private yoga session or a rejuvenating spa treatment, setting the tone for a day of relaxation and discovery.
For lunch, you indulge in exquisite, internationally inspired cuisine at one of the hotel’s signature restaurants, each dish a work of art in itself. The flavors are vibrant, fresh, and thoughtfully curated. In the afternoon, you explore the hotel’s serene spaces, from the tranquil pool to the stunning art installations, all designed to nurture your mind and spirit.
As evening falls, you unwind in the Urban Lounge, savoring a bespoke cocktail from the Gin Library’s unparalleled selection. Later, a gourmet dinner at La Scala offers a perfect blend of Italian sophistication in a setting that feels both intimate and grand. With each moment designed for indulgence, your stay at The Sukhothai Shanghai is an immersive experience of luxury, culture, and serenity, leaving you feeling completely renewed.
- Our stay was hosted by The Sukhothai Shanghai -
Pictures by Sigurd Magnor Killerud