A Celebration of Heritage and Culture Through Design: St. Regis Jakarta by Champalimaud Design
Glamour, Gamelin and Dancing Chandeliers – An Oasis of Light and Sound Make for Memorable Moments
Champalimaud Design, the New York-based interior design studio, has created extraordinary spaces throughout the St. Regis Jakarta by incorporating Indonesia’s traditions of design, music, and art. Their concept tells the story of Jakarta, of the culture, and of the people. Throughout the public spaces, restaurants, and bars, Champalimaud has created spaces that evoke connections, engagement and conversation, taking guests on an enriched journey through the hotel.
“Inspired by the rich jazz traditions of Indonesia, we looked to infuse Jakarta’s cultural heritage with a contemporary energy. We collaborated with local artists to elevate our designs and create an immersive, memorable visit for guests. We hope the hotel will be experienced as a representation of the city, captivating for both locals and guests from far away.” Courtney Brannan, Principal at Champalimaud Design
Indonesia’s rich musical heritage provided key inspiration for Champalimaud Design. Gamelan is the traditional instrumental ensemble of Indonesia and an integral part of Indonesian culture heard at religious ceremonies, celebrations and dance performances. The harmony between dance and music is echoed in the kinetic ‘Sound of Light’ chandelier in the Lobby, created in collaboration with celebrated Czech glassmaker LASVIT. The chandelier’s lighting elements follow the lead of the music playing, undulating and moving according to the sounds and rhythm of the music by Indonesian composer Andi Rianto. The chandelier produces a shimmering light that dances across the space and illuminates the ceiling, creating a memorable arrival for guests. Incorporating the work and spirit of the local community and artisans is integral to Champalimaud Design’s philosophy and the St Regis Jakarta is a celebration of Indonesian art, with the studio’s interpretations of Indonesian design and the work of Indonesian artists incorporated throughout the hotel. In a dynamic video work by artist collective Tromarama, local florals float across the reception area ceiling, adding life to the double volume space.
There are a diverse range of musical genres in Indonesia and the hotel’s signature St. Regis Bar, unique and different at every St. Regis hotel around the world, is full of details and nods to the different instruments and elements of music. The wallcovering mimics the sound waves of jazz, while the striking mural captures the interplay of jazz and art, reflecting the rhythm, energy, and spirit of the history of jazz in Indonesia. The mural was created by Indonesian artist Eddy Susanto and the studio collaborated with Susanto on the colour, figures, and segmentation of the piece. Inspired by Java Jazz, the mural is “painted” using texts depicting Javanese Wayang Figures in Javanese Shadow Puppet Performances. The central chandelier above the main bar is a custom designed glass sculpture inspired by the trombone and saxophone, incorporating long cylinders of bronze intermingled with clear and etched glass cylinders.
Lumens Bar embraces and explores how light and metals play together, with a colour palette influenced by the bronze tones of instruments. The studio created a central feature that mimics liquid and captures light in different ways as guests walk around the bar, while over the bar are beautiful crystals that are reflected in the room itself and onto the deep red upholstery. The wall architecture is a beautiful rhythm of lines and arches with a champagne coloured gold leaf applied.
Dining spaces include the Rose Gourmand Deli, Drawing Room, Tea Room, J.J.A. restaurant, offering upscale dining and Bel Étage, for all day dining. The colour palette of Bel Étage was inspired by the local cuisine of Indonesia. Rich reds, oranges and saffron colours, reminiscent of the persimmons and turmeric used in Indonesia were woven throughout the space. The studio introduced designs that would allow the space to transition throughout the day, morning light turning into a moodier setting at night.
Champalimaud Design sees design as a form of poetic translation. At St Regis Jakarta a strong sense of history and heritage has been maintained, supported by innovative and playful design. The city’s multilayered history is at the heart of the hotel, with the symphony of Jakarta’s cultural refinements, design, music and art brought together. Champalimaud Design’s work is created through the lens of the visitor. The studio is dedicated to expressing the individual character of each space through extensive research and the weaving of considered materials, colours and textures. The stories evoked by the studio both visually and emotionally draw guests to the different spaces of the hotel to experience something new and memorable.
