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Interior architectural design firm Pierre-Yves Rochon (PYR) is the world’s preeminent name in luxury hospitality and residential interiors.  For 40 years, the firm has designed a wide range of iconic interiors for the world’s most prestigious luxury properties. Building on a legacy of several successful projects in Greater China, the firm is poised to expand its presence in this rapidly growing market.

Spearheading this effort is Business Development Director Christina Yao, who brings to PYR a decade of expertise in connecting developers, designers and hotel operators in the Asia Pacific region. “We are extremely proud of the work that we have done in Shanghai, Beijing, Tianjin, and Hong Kong over the years and are excited to bring PYR’s unique design approach to the growing number of luxury developments in China. Now that we have greater representation in the market, we look forward to working with property owners and developers here, helping them to realize their visions for success,” said Yao.

Founded in 1979 by Parisian interior designer Mr. Pierre-Yves Rochon, the firm has established itself as the global leader in luxury hospitality design, bringing its full spectrum of interior and architecture design services to prestigious international hotel brands such as Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, Waldorf Astoria and Peninsula, as well as luminaries of the culinary world such as Joël Robuchon and Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Additionally, PYR’s bespoke furniture, fixture, lighting, and accessory design services have resulted in commercial product lines for international brands such as Lalique, THG, Veronese, and Ligne Roset.

Whether for the interior of a century-old landmark or a cutting-edge new development, PYR’s design team first obtains a precise understanding of a client’s needs and aspirations. Every project starts with discussion and exchange of ideas, in tandem with an immersive process of research and discovery. This involves careful analysis of the building architecture and any historical design elements as well as deep study of the local culture and surrounding geography.  The final result is respectful, authentic, and distinguished. These iconic destinations hold the power to evoke past memories while creating enduring new ones, and reflect the client’s vision for the future.

The Savoy Hotel is a telling example of this design approach. A three-year renovation has breathed new life into the 130 year-old London landmark, by honoring both classical English Edwardian and 1930’s Art Deco aesthetics original to the hotel.  Whether restoring an original frieze in the lobby, adding an intimate gazebo to the tearoom, or building a crystal Lalique fountain at the hotel entrance depicting fish from the Thames River, each design decision tells a story that is unique to the location, its local culture, and its history.

Similarly, at the Four Seasons Florence, PYR’s seven-year restoration and conversion of a 15th century palace and 16th century convent combines contemporary comfort with stunning Italian Renaissance architectural elements and original artwork.  Exquisite frescoes, bas reliefs, and marble marquetry elicit a profound sense of living history throughout the property. Hotel guests experience a modern version of how Florentine nobles lived there centuries ago.

PYR has also made its mark in numerous Chinese cities. The Peninsula Shanghai on the historic Bund riverfront, for instance, unveils an elegant interior reminiscent of the time when Shanghai was regarded as the “Paris of the East”. The property’s graceful Art Deco stylings and traditional Chinese elements honor the history of this important trading port, while the ultra-modern Pudong skyline across the Huangpu River provides an electrifying panorama for guests.

Likewise, The Ritz-Carlton Tianjin is reminiscent of a bygone era while its modern elegance and technological integration are unmistakably geared towards the most discerning international travelers. The hotel’s English Neoclassical interiors highlight balance, symmetry, and proportion. These European architectural aesthetics combined with Chinese decorative elements reflect the port city’s dual heritage, giving the hotel a sense of place that is distinctive and unforgettable.