Header: Wang Ting
For millennia, Yining, a frontier city in Xinjiang in China, has been an important stop along the Silk Road trade route. Framed by the river valley and lush green landscape, the Jiangnan region is a place where time slows, and the people live in the rhythm of nature. In this green oasis, a contemporary nomadic sanctuary provides a refined retreat for modern travellers.
Rooted in the design concept of Yining Reverie · Silk Road Manor, the InterContinental Yining hotel hosts a symphony of space and light, infusing every detail with culture. Situated on the banks of the Ili River, the hotel fulfils the standards of modern hospitality venues while at the same time evoking a timeless narrative of the old Silk Road civilisation. The architectural ensemble of the hotel embodies the ideas of vernacular houses in the I li River Valley – restrained on the outside, expansive within.
Water courtyard entrance
The manor-style garden inspired by the traditional local courtyards unfolds as a tri-winged architectural cluster. Local elements are enhanced with contemporary materials. Iconic blue tones of Yining houses and the traditional wood carvings transform the porch, while shimmering water animates the building. Four distinct courtyards built a spatial sequence that spans from openness to privacy.
Lobby and lounge
The hotel lobby draws inspiration from the ancient Wusun Train. 14-meter-high, the lobby features a curved ceiling that conjures the vast starlit sky. Iconic arches of Yining’s vernacular houses are distilled into a minimalist geometry. The lobby is decorated with handwoven wool tapestries and bronze lanterns, which embody the spirits of old nomadic caravans. Traces of local cultural memory have been incorporated into every detail. The corridor encapsulates the essence of the city’s living room culture, where Silk Road heritage stars a dialogue with contemporary art.
Bazaar-inspired restaurants
Inspired by Yining Bazaar, the all-day dining restaurant offers delicacies, authentic flavours, and cultural flair. The smell of sweet Hami melon juice mixes with coffee Arabica, reviving the sense of ancient fortified roadside inns. Caifenglou Chinese Restaurant pays tribute to the Tianshan Mountain pastures. Guests can enjoy traditional meals from all parts of China, including Cantonese crispy pigeon with Ili spices or Xibe fish soup served in a Kazakh-style engraved copper bowl.
Wellness centre, ballroom and conference rooms
A calm and restorative wellness centre features an indoor pool, top-tier fitness facilities, and wetland landscapes resembling a living painting. Guests can unwind and recharge in the ambience of Lakeside serenity. Charaterized by warmth and intimacy, ballroom and conference rooms go beyond conventional formalities. The design captures the spirit of Meshrep, a Uyghur festivity of music, dance, and community. The multiuse spaces can be used for meetings and celebrations alike, creating lasting, joyful memories.
Guestrooms and suites
Guestrooms and suites are decorated in the Yining Blue colour palette, accompanied by soft grey and warm oak finishes. Large windows provide views of the river valley while the walls recall the charm of traditional rammed earth. Cultural imprint of the Yining region is noticeable in pomegranate floral patterns, lavender colour accents, and distinctive window forms. Vine motifs are abstracted into screen patterns casting an changing play of light and shadow. Completed with custom furnishing and an intelligent system, the prestigious retreat offers everything a modern tourist may need.
Cheng Chung Design
Cheng Chung Design specialises in providing consulting and interior design services to top hospitality venues, including hotels, complexes, and high-end residential projects. Founded by Mr Joe Cheng, the CCD elite team is composed of diverse, skilled professionals who mix oriental background with technological expertise and innovations. Winners of many awards, the company was listed among the Top 500 Most Valuable Brands of China in 2020, with a brand value of 9.758 billion.
