2026 | Professional

MUSE Design Awards Gold Winner

Xinjiang Huamei Shengdi Kashgar InterContinental Hotel Clust

Entrant

Dongda International Architecture & Engineering Co., Ltd

Category

Architectural Design - Hotels & Resorts

Client's Name

-

Country / Region

China

About The Entry

Situated between the ancient city of Kashgar and the new eastern district, this hotel cluster redefines hospitality as a cultural connector. Conceived by SCDA, the design translates historic alleyways, roof gardens, and courtyards into a contemporary architectural language. Three towers echo the old skyline, while two‑story podiums weave a continuous spatial narrative – making the complex an organic extension of local identity.

SCDA’s philosophy of “sequential experience” guides the guest journey: from the second‑floor drop‑off, through a lobby with panoramic ancient‑city views, to 14th‑floor guestrooms with full‑width windows, and finally to the rooftop restaurant overlooking the river. This choreographed sequence turns every transition into discovery. An “inside‑out” approach prioritises user behaviour over form – hence the ground‑level garden and waterfront courtyards are arranged to let occupant experience drive spatial logic.

The podium uses locally quarried Xinjiang granite – durable against extreme climate and rich in regional texture, while reducing transport emissions. The towers employ stone‑effect aluminum panels, weighing just one‑sixth of natural stone, easing structural load and being fully recyclable. This dual‑material strategy achieves visual harmony with significant environmental benefits; aluminum panels carry green building certification.

The project mediates the rupture between old and new Kashgar, preserving cultural memory amid rapid urban growth. Four hotel brands – InterContinental, HUALUXE, Holiday Inn, and Express – share amenities via connected podiums and covered walkways, balancing independence with resource efficiency. Strategic openings maximise river and city views for every hotel. HUALUXE’s waterfront garden and conference centre serve as a “public living room” for local residents, hosting community events and strengthening social cohesion.

Long‑lasting granite and recyclable aluminum extend the building’s lifecycle, reducing replacement frequency. This complex is not merely a hospitality destination – it is a contemporary interpretation of Kashgar’s soul, where innovation honours heritage and design fosters genuine human connection.

Featured Media

Credits

MR. CHAN SOO KHIAN
Mr. OONJIN AIK
Luna
Bingbing Jiao
Li Pan
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