The Kimpton Nine Trees Hotel is a resort development located at the heart of the Central Ecological Park in Fengxian District, on the outskirts of Shanghai. Bordered by rivers to the south and east and surrounded by abundant trees, the site offers a tranquil setting with a strong connection to the surrounding natural environment.
Spanning approximately 50,000 sqm, the site accommodates a distinctive low-rise architectural complex. Resembling the undulating contours of the earth, the architecture nestles quietly within the natural landscape, blending into its surroundings while standing out as a striking artistic presence.
Between the organically shaped buildings, a linear landscape corridor runs north to south, evoking a fissure in the earth. Named the Oasis Promenade, this central axis connects an open lawn at its northern end with an outdoor pool area overlooking the river to the south. A series of diverse outdoor spaces branches off from the promenade, unfolding within and between the architectural forms.
Inspired by the distinctive character of the architecture, the landscape concept is titled “A Hidden Rainforest Valley.” The design creates a secluded rainforest sanctuary within the valleys between the buildings, inviting guests to explore lush greenery and experience the vitality of nature. Nine signature trees, echoing the hotel’s name, are scattered throughout the landscape, encouraging discovery along the journey.
The landscape is organized into five main areas: the Entrance Area, Oasis Promenade, Bar Area, Spa Area, and Pet Garden Area.
Entrance Area
A gently undulating lawn guides guests toward an open and welcoming drop-off. A magnificent osmanthus tree at the center of the arrival court serves as a distinctive focal point, welcoming guests and marking the beginning of an extraordinary stay.
Beyond the entrance and lobby, a lush garden retreat unfolds. A simple black granite water feature serves as a subtle focal point, while the gentle sound of flowing water creates a soothing atmosphere for guests to relax and unwind.
Oasis Promenade
Extending approximately 300 meters from north to south, the Oasis Promenade forms the heart of the outdoor landscape. At its northern end, a lawn beside the ballroom and restaurants accommodates weddings and a variety of events. A magnificent Persian silk tree, one of the nine signature trees, provides generous shade for gatherings.
Resting spots are distributed along the lush promenade, inviting guests to pause among the trees and enjoy the resort at their own pace. Nearby, the Nature Discovery Garden centers on a mature golden rain tree, where children can explore plants and learn about nature beneath its canopy.
Continuing south, guests encounter a tranquil lagoon pool embraced by trees. Hidden within the landscape, it evokes the experience of discovering a mountain stream deep in a valley. Following the valley, guests continue their journey until the space opens up to reveal the expansive main pool area.
Centered around the Plunge pool and children’s pool, this area also features a pool bar and distinctive cabanas, offering an immersive poolside resort experience in Shanghai and serves as one of the hotel’s signature attractions.
Along the promenade, other signature trees, including Chinese tallow trees and zelkova, enrich the planting and create varied shaded spaces along the promenade.
Bar Area
Located in the southwestern part of the site, the Bar Area operates independently from the main hotel. With its own drop-off. It welcomes both hotel guests and visitors from the surrounding community.
The cave-inspired interior design extends into the outdoor landscape, where the atmosphere of caves and arid environments is reflected in the design. A dry garden centered around a Japanese Hackberry tree, one of the nine signature trees, creates a contrasting atmosphere to the lush greenery found elsewhere on the site. The area offers a variety of nighttime experiences, including outdoor camping and open-air cinema.
Spa Area
One of the key themes of the hotel is inner healing. In addition to its extensive spa facilities, outdoor spa baths and a yoga garden provide opportunities for guests to unwind and restore their sense of well-being through a close connection with nature. A Olive tree and a soapberry tree, both among the nine signature trees, are strategically placed throughout the area, enhancing its tranquil and restorative atmosphere.
A private spa pool, available by reservation, is located within the atrium on an upper floor of the lobby building. Surrounded by the interplay of architecture and landscape, it offers guests an exclusive and deeply relaxing experience.
Pet Garden Area
Pet-friendly hospitality is one of the hotel’s defining features, allowing guests to stay with their pets. The guestroom wing in the southeastern part of the site includes dedicated pet-friendly rooms, with private gardens attached to the ground-floor rooms where guests and their pets can spend time together outdoors.
The Pet Garden is organized around a cherry tree, one of the nine signature trees. It is designed as a welcoming and relaxing environment where pets and their families can enjoy time together.
A Nature Retreat on the Outskirts of Shanghai
Located in Shanghai, the hotel offers urban residents a nature-oriented retreat from everyday life. Inspired by the concept of “A Hidden Rainforest Valley,” the landscape offers secluded spaces for relaxation and nature experiences, creating a distinctive retreat close to the city yet removed from its bustle.
Kimpton Nine Trees Shanghai
Location: Shanghai, China
Landscape architect: TOA Landscape Architecture
Design team: Okawa Yoshinari, Chen Rong, Qu Songda, Yu Xiaotong, Liu Junyi
Design year: 2024-2025
Year Built: 2026
Image and Text credit: TOA Landscape Architecture
Photography: Makoto Adachi
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