Y Hotel
by HÉZI INTERIOR DESIGN

HÉZI INTERIOR DESIGN has created Y Hotel in Ningbo as an urban sanctuary that offers guests a sense of calm while remaining closely connected to the city. Positioned beside the river, the hotel provides a deliberate escape from the pace of urban life through carefully considered spatial sequencing. An elongated entrance corridor, softened by lush planting and garden elements, establishes an emotional transition from the outside world. Rather than relying on decorative features, the studio uses nature to slow the guest journey and create an immediate sense of tranquillity.

Within the lobby, HÉZI INTERIOR DESIGN achieves a feeling of understated grandeur through refinement rather than scale. A six metre floor to ceiling glazed façade frames the surrounding landscape, drawing natural light and gardens into the interior. Referencing Ningbo’s traditional concept of the China Cabinet, the design transforms outdoor views into living works of art. A collaborative LED installation inspired by the local camellia further strengthens the connection to place by reimagining everyday objects as contemporary floral forms.

The hotel’s public spaces each offer a distinct atmosphere while remaining united by a consistent design philosophy. The second floor all day dining restaurant interprets luxury tented camps within an urban setting, combining metallic canopy structures with abundant greenery and riverside views. The third floor club bar adopts a more intimate character through subdued lighting, vintage textures and contemporary finishes. Across the hotel’s 88 guestrooms, balconies, terraces and private gardens reinforce an enduring relationship with nature.

Materiality is central to the studio’s vision. Japanese cypress introduces warmth and subtle fragrance, while carbonised wood provides texture and celebrates the beauty of natural ageing. Through balanced proportions, natural light and meticulous detailing, HÉZI INTERIOR DESIGN redefines luxury as an experience shaped by authenticity, comfort and quiet refinement.

Location: Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China

Architect: Verse Design

Interior Designer: HÉZI INTERIOR DESIGN: Zhonglin Tian, Yuchen Lin, Chang Yang, Tianyu Huang, Shu Fang, Quan Yuan, Shiqi Zhang, Linshan Li

Hotel Group/ Developer: NINGBO Y HOTEL