Why did you choose Shanghai for Andaz's arrival in China?
It's a combination of opportunities and the desire to be present in the world's major metropolises. We already have a footprint in several major cities, with five Andaz in New York, London, San Diego and Hollywood. And other projects are under way, notably in Amsterdam and New Delhi. In Shanghai, the hotel is located in Xintiandi, a very young and dynamic district, very much in keeping with the concept of the latest brand launched by the Hyatt group.
What is this concept?
We wanted to combine the sophistication of a five-star hotel, with all its services, with the simplicity of a boutique hotel. From the moment you walk through the door, you find yourself in a relaxed atmosphere that breaks away from a day's work. The physical barriers between customers and staff have been removed. No more check-in desks, uniforms, concierges or baggage handlers. An employee takes complete charge of the customer as soon as they arrive. They are invited to sit on a sofa in the lounge or around a large table to check in.
Is this brand standardised?
On the contrary. The hotels are very different from one another and are part of their local environment, so that guests know where they are, even if they are only staying for one night. In Shanghai, for example, the project incorporates restored Shikumen houses in the traditional Chinese style. In London, we have a reader in residence who can review the English press in the morning, or read a story to the guest in the evening.
