WMK / Shangri-La Hotel

Challenge

To redevelop the ageing 4 star resort hotel into a prominent 5 star jewel for the new owners and new operators. The hotel had to remain operational, the design include cyclone resistance measures, and works be staged around the wet season.

Solution

Strategic masterplanning created new opportunities including the addition of a floor of new premium guest rooms and business club, upgrade of the 216 existing rooms, rationalisation of hotel F&B offers and improvements in operations functionality.

The new design for the hotel’s porte cochere entry, exterior facades, and extensive marina boardwalk makes a visual statement, while treatment of the vast entry lobby, bar and restaurant areas introduces 3-storey voids, bold panelling and detailing in a fluid, contemporary design reflecting the tropical location with cool colours, stone floors and reflection ponds.

In a second phase, master planning of the banquet and function facilities doubled the existing space by cutting in a dramatic link stair to new flexible conference space with marina views. A modern Asian ambience using custom carpet, timber and silk detailing created the perfect venue for private celebrations or business conferences.

Outcome

The $40mil refurbishment responded to its quintessential reef and rainforest location creating a sophisticated, spatially exciting guest experience that repositioned the hotel into another class and improved returns.

Awards
AHA’s Best Hotel Redevelopment in Queensland 2007
Highly commended for both the National IDA Awards and the Queensland State RAIA Awards for 2007
Winner of the Meetings and Business Tourism Award, Tropical North Queensland Tourism Awards, 2009
Best Deluxe Accommodation award, The Queensland Hotel Associations Awards, 2009.