The brightly lit lobby area is similarly grounded by the reclaimed wood that serves as both flooring and seating throughout the expansive space.
One of many art installations at the W Taipei, the giant chain sculpture at the entrance is meant to physically connect the hotel to the Earth.
London’s GA Design International conceptualized the W Taipei as “nature, electrified,” blending the energy and technology of the urban center with the area’s natural beauty.
Upcycled
In September 2013, the W Taipei, along with the Taiwan Design Center and sustainability innovator Miniwiz, wrapped its “Trash Re-design” project with a display of seven eco-friendly products upcycled from the hotel’s trash. Over a four-month period, seven designers transformed recycled hotel waste—from plastic bottles (of which the hotel uses 300,000 per year) to in-room slippers—into innovative items that can be used in a luxury hotel. The results, presented at the Taiwan Design Expo, ranged from ring holders and interactive coasters to a personal pinball game and a “W” coat hanger. At the end of the competition, the hotel purchased three of the seven products for production as guest amenities and experience enhancements.
Lollypop Coaster by Yu-Jui Chou
Jewelry Holder by Fanny Kuo
Next project: InterContinental Hong Kong
