Linehouse Redefines Industrial Aesthetics in Jen Hangzhou Hotel

Linehouse, an international design studio, has meticulously crafted the interiors of the Jen Hotel in Hangzhou, China, incorporating elements that pay homage to both traditional local artistry and the region's industrial legacy.

The 18-story hotel, a creation of the US architectural firm Kohn Pedersen Fox, stands proudly by Hangzhou's Dongxin River, flanked by former industrial complexes. Its exterior, a blend of steel, grey brick, and glass, subtly references the site's manufacturing past. This industrial theme extends seamlessly into the hotel's interior, where Linehouse has focused on celebrating local craftsmanship and integrating the area's historical industrial character. “Jen Hangzhou is an urban hotel that celebrates its neighbourhood context – one that layers history, craft, culture and rich materiality into a new perspective on Hangzhou,” the studio stated, emphasizing their commitment to a design deeply rooted in its surroundings.

Upon entering, guests are welcomed into a serene ground-floor lobby adorned with earthy marble tones, oak paneling, and inviting furnishings. A captivating artwork by Elsa Jeandedieu, depicting an abstract interpretation of the nearby bridges and canal, adds a distinctive touch. The lobby's marble flooring and a custom rug feature patchwork patterns, drawing inspiration from the intricate street layouts and tile designs of the local area. Moving to the sixth floor, a vibrant hub of hospitality unfolds, housing the OpenHouse restaurant, a bar, and various function rooms. The OpenHouse restaurant, a long and linear space, is bathed in natural light through its full-height glazing. Its ceiling boasts a timber feature inspired by the traditional sunmao joinery technique, highlighted by a slim black metal frame that supports elegant suspended lighting. A central coffee bar divides the restaurant into a dining area and an all-day lounge. The private dining room features an angled timber canopy with rich burnt red and yellow hues, while other areas of the restaurant showcase teal tiles and handmade ceramic wall lighting. Adjacent to the restaurant, the Koan Bar captivates with its triple-height design and a striking undulating black metal staircase leading to an upper-floor terrace, offering social platforms for guests. The fluid staircase is set against concrete-paneled walls, further echoing the site's industrial roots. Beneath, curved booths crafted from walnut timber and tan leather provide intimate seating arrangements. The sixth floor also features three interconnected spaces with undulating timber walls, perfect for events and private gatherings, with custom carpets reflecting the urban details of the neighborhood. The seventh floor is a sanctuary dedicated to well-being, featuring a gym, a yoga room, a spa, a pool, and changing facilities. These spaces are designed with tactile materials and muted tones to foster a tranquil atmosphere. The gym boasts a lava stone wall with engravings symbolizing movement, while the yoga room is enhanced by hand-chiseled timber panels. A unique sloped skylit annex houses the swimming pool, creating a bright and airy aquatic environment. The 176 guest rooms offer "urban retreats," characterized by a sophisticated industrial aesthetic. A subdued palette of gunmetal, oak, textured plaster, and tan leather defines these spaces. The guest rooms also feature curved ceilings that provide soft, indirect lighting, and glass-block walls in the bathrooms, creating an atmosphere of refined comfort.

This design approach masterfully integrates the old with the new, creating a hotel that is both modern and deeply connected to its heritage. The use of natural materials and subtle industrial touches throughout the property not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also tells a story of Hangzhou's rich history and vibrant culture. The Jen Hotel, with its blend of local craftsmanship and industrial chic, offers a compelling vision for contemporary hospitality, inviting guests to experience a tranquil yet engaging urban sanctuary.