2026 | Professional

MUSE Design Awards Platinum Winner

Tekes Hontong International Hotel Phase II

Entrant

Shanghai Pinzhu Architectural Design Co., Ltd./ Han Qifei, Jiang Manyi, Guo Rui

Category

Interior Design - Hotels & Resorts

Client's Name

Hengtong Hotel Management Co., Ltd. in Tekes County

Country / Region

China

About The Entry

Positioned as a cornerstone of Tekes County’s tourism strategy, this hotel is an iconic development for Ili Prefecture. It elevates regional luxury hospitality through a forward-looking design vision. Anchored in the“Serenity of the Tianshan Mountains,” the project moves beyond the conventional hotel model to establish a multifaceted destination, serving simultaneously as a social hub for the city, a cultural landmark, and a tranquil retreat.

The design's strength is rooted in its ability to thoughtfully reinterpret local heritage for a modern sensibility. It avoids literal reproduction, instead distilling cultural DNA—from the silhouette of the Tianshan Mountains, to the rhythm of the grasslands, the symbolism of Bagua (the Eight Trigrams underlying the city's layout), and the form of the traditional Kazakh yurt—into a refined, contemporary design language. Key elements such as the Silk Road-inspired lobby bar, the yurt-influenced restaurant, and the swan-grace ceiling art in the banquet hall are not merely decorative; together, they form a cohesive and immersive cultural narrative that connects guests to the place.

The guest experience is intentionally shaped by a clear delineation between social and private zones. Dynamic public spaces, such as the lobby, restaurants, and event halls, are open and art-filled, projecting energy and sophistication. In contrast, the private retreats, like guest rooms and the wellness center, prioritize tranquility. They utilize locally sourced materials, soft lighting, and natural textures to cultivate a profound sense of calm. This ethos extends to the swimming pool, conceived as a “mountain lake” to offer a deeply immersive, serene environment.

Moreover, the project successfully navigates the challenge of balancing authentic cultural expression with a clean, modern aesthetic. This is achieved through meticulous control of proportions and innovative material use. For irregular spaces, a rigorous process of verification and systematic customization ensures the design vision is realized without compromise. Sustainability is integral, not an afterthought. It encompasses energy-efficient systems, responsible material sourcing, and a timeless, modular design approach, ensuring the hotel is both a leader in contemporary hospitality and an enduring landmark.

Credits

Chief Designer
Han Qifei
Assistant Designer
Jiang Manyi
Assistant Designer
Guo Rui
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