WATG AND WIMBERLY INTERIORS DESIGN THE ST. REGIS ASTANA, BRINGING A NEW LEVEL OF GLAMOUR TO KAZAKHSTAN

Leading integrated design firm, WATG and affiliated design studio Wimberly Interiors are pleased to reveal the design of the St. Regis Astana, inspired by Kazakhstan’s mythology and traditions. Set to open in June 2017, this iconic hotel marks the first entry of the St. Regis brand in Kazakhstan, bringing a new height of luxury to Astana.

Located on the banks of Ishim River, at Central Park, Astana’s most coveted address, WATG used the hotels prominent location to inspire a design that highlights the distinct cultural heritage of Astana. The design takes a traditional, yet grand approach to luxury hotel design, using a hierarchy of spaces and forms to make the building an icon within the city scape.

Both the yurt inspired building form and the entrance to the hotel engage with the open land and tree-scape nearby, paying homage to the traditional Kazakh dwelling. Crafted using an antique bronze aesthetic combined with steel and glass, the yurt is a modern take on the iconic design. The architectural design positioned the terraces, public promenades and restaurants along the waterfront allowing the hotel to leverage the extraordinary views of the Ishim River.

“We wanted the building to be a timeless addition to the city. We didn’t want the building to take any specific stylistic mode, we wanted it to be a contribution, both stylish and elegant. We envision the area to evolve in a similar way to New York’s Central Park, where the buildings line the borders of the parklands.” comments Jeremy Heyes, Senior Vice President, WATG.

The interior design narrative takes inspiration from Kazakhstan traditions, every detail is hand-selected and bespoke. Using regal features and luxurious textures including embossed leather chairs, patterned timber flooring, shadgreen clad joinery, Eglomise mirrors and Cut Crystal Chandeliers, whilst maintaining the most modern of comforts. WATG and Wimberly Interiors infused the St. Regis brand elegance with the history or the surrounding landscape and local culture in a subtle but distinctive way. Horses are an intrinsic part of Kazakh culture, the interior design weaves equine touches effortlessly through various artworks, fabrics and antique bronze equestrian buckle detailing.

“The nomads carried gold about them which fitted perfectly as a light design touch, especially as the St Regis accent is gold as opposed to chrome or silver”. Rachel Johnson, Vice President, Wimberly Interiors.

Artwork adorns the walls throughout the hotel, with over 400 contemporary pieces complimenting the interior design. One of the focal art features in the lobby includes a large luxurious 24 carrot gold leaf and copper leaf mural of a phoenix, designed by Céline Alexandre referencing the Samruk phoenix myth in Kazakhstan.

All 120 guest rooms are adorned with a spacious entrance, separated living room and bedroom area, with plenty of closet space and a luxurious marble bathroom. The St. Regis Astana features 23 suites, including a 510 sqm. Presidential Suite with bespoke furniture crafted by local artisans, study room, large dining room, wine vault and an extensive bathroom, featuring a sauna and a 139 sqm. terrace with a Jacuzzi.

The focus on creating a lasting memory and experience of the hotel extends to the shared spaces which includes a signature restaurant, all-day-dining restaurant and The St. Regis Bar, designed with comfort and luxury in mind.

“We designed the all-day dining and the St. Regis Grill in a way that would allow the chefs and the preparation to be an integral part of the dining experience.” commented Damien Follone, F&B Designer, Wimberly Interiors.

The spa and wellness facilities have been completed with the latest innovative facilities, with an indoor swimming pool and 1700 sqm. Iridium Spa, guests will also be able to enjoy the St. Regis Athletic Club to seek refuge and stay active during their stay.