With India’s first Biennale that launched in Kochi (Cochin), Kerala on 12th December, the spotlight is on the state’s evolution from a place largely about the traditional to one that is embracing the contemporary. And it is soon to have its most exciting hotel yet. Situated in the upcoming business district of the city, The Park Kochi, member of The Design Hotels, with its international appeal and innovative design, is testament to the city’s development into one of India’s major metropolises in recent years.
Designed by Lotus Group, also responsible for Raas in Jodhpur, the 28 floor, 168 room building, complete with a heli-pad on the roof, will be the tallest hotel in the state. The design is reminiscent of The Park Hotels’ hallmark style, mixing the contemporary with the traditional.
Striking Keralan influences feature throughout the hotel. Highlights include an upturned hull in the reception, harking back to the states’ sea-faring traditions, lights inspired by Netipattam (elephant decorations) in the entrance and hand-crafted, 6-storey high brass mobiles, based on traditional Kasava dancer outfits spread over two atriums.
The Miami poolside bar concept was first bought to the subcontinent by The Park Hotels and this hotel will not disappoint. Taking pride of place on the 27th floor and with jaw-dropping views over to Old Cochin and beyond, AQUA will be white-cool in the day and vibrant-high-decibel into the night.
The three restaurants consist of a 24-hour outlet, reflecting the Keralan backwaters, a specialty Keralan restaurant, serving all four cuisines from the state and a double height Asian restaurant which dominates the 27th floor.
The AURA Spa will take over the 20th floor of the hotel and a separate four-storey, seven treatment room stilted structure, surrounded by water, will launch later in 2013. The building features intricate laser-cut Tyvek wrapped in a skin of composite glass to give the appearance of a softly glowing lantern at night. Guests can indulge in treatments, both traditional Indian and a la mode, as well as a number of programmes for top to toe overhauls.
