WJ Studio designs the new Boatyard Hotel that is found in the rural Wuijang District of Suzhou. Specifically, it is in the village of Shanwan, which rests right by a river for an idyllic scene. The hotel is inspired by natural design cues and has an overall minimal aesthetic to complement the area that it is surrounded by.
The look focuses on water and natural lighting with details that are applied in order to elevate the natural elements on the scene. The roofs have arched looks that sit high and low, inspired by the look of ships that are docked on the water for a free-flowing aesthetic. Additionally, there is a dark trestle bridge that also looks like a small floating island for guests to enjoy views.
Image Credit: WJ Studio
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Scenic Hospitality Design
- The trend of designing hotels with natural design cues and minimal aesthetics that complement the surrounding environment creates the opportunity for hospitality brands to differentiate themselves through unique and immersive guest experiences.
- Riverfront Hotels
- The trend of building hotels by rivers and incorporating the natural elements of the surrounding environment creates a disruptive innovation opportunity for the tourism industry to attract travelers seeking unique and tranquil experiences.
- Water-inspired Architecture
- The trend of drawing design inspiration from water and marine structures creates a disruption opportunity for architects and engineers to apply innovative techniques in developing new and interesting structures that evoke a sense of peace and calmness.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Hospitality
- Incorporating natural elements and designing hotels to complement the surrounding environment creates a disruptive innovation opportunity for the hospitality industry to differentiate themselves and appeal to travelers seeking unique and immersive experiences.
- Tourism
- The development of hotels by rivers and incorporating natural elements creates a disruptive innovation opportunity for the tourism industry to attract travelers seeking unique and tranquil experiences.
- Architecture and Engineering
- Drawing inspiration from water and marine structures creates an opportunity for architecture and engineering industries to apply innovative techniques in developing new and interesting structures that evoke a sense of peace and calmness.
