Grand Hyatt Taipei is preparing to completely shut down for ten days from August 13 to 23 – as part of the first phase of a major room upgrade “that’s been long in the planning”, according to general manager David Pacey.
During that period, over 500 rooms of the total inventory of 852 rooms will be subject to the jackhammer, setting the groundwork for the renovated product, conceptualised by the Paris-based Didier Gomez Interior Design.
“This is the largest makeover since the hotel opened in 1990,” Pacey reported. “And since this is traditionally the low season in Taipei, our owners were gracious enough to allow us to close down entirely so as not to inconvenience guests.”
After the demolition is done, the hotel will reopen on August 24 with 391 untouched guestrooms again available for booking. Renovation is expected to be completed on May 1, 2013, after which the closure cycle is repeated from July 1 to 10, with the remaining units to go through demolition. The final phase takes place from July 11 to April 2014.
Standard room rendering
Pacey described the future interiors as clean and stylish, while the in-room technology will feature energy-saving functions in the lighting and water systems as well as internet TV. "We'll probably even take technology beyond what it is now," the executive added.
Standard bathroom rendering
The lobby, public areas and restaurants will undergo their own rejuvenation but at a later date, Pacey told Business Traveller.
He said that customers of the 22-year-old Grand Hyatt were informed of the closure early this year, he added: "They're embracing the idea and really looking forward to the new rooms."
The total price of the project is US$100 million.
For more about the hotel, visit www.taipei.grand.hyatt.com
Margie T Logarta
