2026 | Professional

MUSE Design Awards Gold Winner

SHENYANG COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT

Entrant

Nan Zheng

Category

Interior Design - Hotels & Resorts

Client's Name

Shenyang COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT

Country / Region

China

About The Entry

Rooted in the cultural legacy of Shengjing and the industrial memory of Shenyang, the project reinterprets the city’s historical identity through a contemporary hospitality experience. Inspired by the concept of “reimagining old Shengjing through modern design,” the space transforms local heritage into an immersive narrative that connects past and present.

The design draws from the city’s ancient walls, imperial architecture, traditional streets, and natural landscapes. Textures inspired by historic blue-brick city walls preserve traces of time, while abstract interpretations of the soaring golden eaves of the Shenyang Imperial Palace are translated into contemporary geometric forms and artistic installations. Through carefully orchestrated light and shadow, the atmosphere evokes the twilight skyline of Shengjing, creating a welcoming experience that balances ceremonial grandeur with warmth and vitality.

Public spaces continue this cultural narrative through a series of immersive scenes. The lobby lounge adopts the poetic concept of “surrounded by stars, leisurely savoring tea,” where layered arches, soft lighting, and refined furnishings create a tranquil retreat for social interaction and relaxation. The all-day dining venue draws inspiration from the lantern festivals and vibrant street life of Shenyang’s historic districts, reinterpreting traditional lantern elements through a modern lens to create an environment that is both elegant and lively.

The fitness and conference areas reflect contrasting yet complementary values. The gym emphasizes authenticity, functionality, and personal wellbeing through a restrained and minimalist design language. The conference foyer expresses the idea that “history is the city,” utilizing textured materials, balanced proportions, and sophisticated detailing to create a business environment rooted in local identity.

As the narrative culmination of the interior journey, the elevator lobby is inspired by the Hun River, Shenyang’s mother river. Through stone, artistic glass, and flowing light effects, the space captures the movement and spirit of water, transforming a transitional zone into a contemplative experience. Together, these elements create a contemporary destination where the cultural heritage, urban memory, and evolving vitality of Shengjing are seamlessly woven into everyday hospitality.

Credits

Chief Designer
Nan Zheng
Assistant Designer
Kaicheng Xiao
Assistant Designer
Jiahong Lu
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