WATG AND WIMBERLY INTERIORS DESIGN THE ST. REGIS ASTANA, KAZAKHSTAN

WATG, the world’s leading hospitality design firm and Wimberly Interiors, a design studio of WATG, 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 the historical crossroads of human civilisation.

Located on the banks of the 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 hotel entrance 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 national Kazakh design. The overall architectural design also 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 and historical part of Kazakh culture, and 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,” said 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 carat gold and copper leaf mural of a phoenix, designed by Céline Alexandre, referencing the mythological Samruk phoenix.

All 120 guest rooms are adorned with a spacious entrance, separate living room and bedroom area, with generous closet space and a luxurious marble bathroom. The St. Regis Astana features 23 suites, including a 510 square-metre 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 square-metre terrace with Jacuzzi.

The focus on creating a lasting memory and experience of the hotel extends to the shared spaces which include 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, Food & Beverage Designer, Wimberly Interiors.

The spa and wellness facilities have been completed with the latest innovative facilities, an indoor swimming pool and 1,700 square-metre Iridium Spa. Guests will also be able to enjoy the St. Regis Athletic Club to seek refuge and stay active during their stay.

For more information please contact Purple PR:

Laura Blakeman | laura.blakeman@purplepr.com | 0207 434 7066
Georgie Griffiths | Georgie.griffiths@purplepr.com | 0207 434 7066