GRAND HYATT KOCHI

Kochi, Kerala, India

The owner wanted to develop a signature hotel/conference center in his hometown of Kochin, India. Projecting into the Kerala backwaters, the site had potential for sweeping 270 degree views, and provided an elevated bridge approach that was impactful in concepting the architectural expression.

To take advantage of unfolding views, the masterplan design laid out the 264 room hotel in a sinuous S curve shape, being ‘anchored’ to the ground with townhouse villas at the south end. The dynamic shape creates visual interest and helps to divert focus away from the 30,000 sf conference facility, which was then designed as a simple low-slung orthogonal structure underpinning the fluid hotel above.

With views in 3 directions, guest / conference support and guest/service circulation became critical design directives. An elevated arrival podium with support circulation below led to unique sectional volumes in guest F&B and amenity space designs.