Peace in our time

• Source: Global Times
• [11:17 July 23 2010]
• Comments

Hotel redux. Photo: Lu Yun

By Liu Mengyue

The story of the Fairmont Peace Hotel, which re-opens next week after a three-year refurbishment, is like a microcosm of Shanghai itself. The building has been witness to many of the city's defining moments since its doors first opened back in 1929. Built by property and finance tycoon Victor Sassoon, the former Cathay Hotel quickly acquired the title of "Number One Mansion in the Far East." At the time Sassoon hosted extravagant parties for his guests who included artists, diplomats and celebrities.

The hotel boasted the city's first elevator and phone facilities and was, until 1934, the tallest building in Shanghai.

"It was like an emperor's palace, with music, wine and interesting people every night," general manager Kamal Naamani told the Global Times in an exclusive interview.

Part of the Jin Jiang group, the hotel is now being operated as part of a consortium with Canadian hoteliers Fairmont. A partnership agreement between the two was signed in 2007.

"I would rather call what we have done here a restoration as opposed to a renovation," Naamani, said. "Our work, unlike most renovation programs, has been carried out in consultation with the government, the Cultural Bureau of Shanghai and historians."

Outside, the building's green copper sheathed triangular roof, and the Gothic façade, is still the hotel's most recognizable features.

And in terms of its interior design, Naamani explained how the building has retained its 1920s Lalique glass ornaments and fixtures, created by the famous Lalique workshops in France. The original Art Deco frieze of two greyhounds will remain the emblem of the hotel, where they adorn the entrance atrium.