The Karl Lagerfeld Hotel: A Luxurious Haven in Macau
Macau, often referred to as the Las Vegas of the East, recently celebrated the grand opening of the world’s first Karl Lagerfeld hotel. The event featured a glamorous party that welcomed a distinguished guest list, including the award-winning actress Michelle Yeoh, who made waves after her Oscar win for Everything Everywhere All at Once. Furthermore, K-pop band members made an appearance, turning the event into a star-studded evening marked by excitement and entertainment.
The Lowdown
Although Macau spans just 12.7 square miles—approximately a tenth of the size of Las Vegas—it has outperformed its American counterpart in revenue generation, particularly in 2019. This remarkable achievement is partially attributed to the efforts of Stanley Ho, known as Hong Kong’s ‘Godfather of Gambling’. After fleeing to Macau during World War II, Ho built a vast empire in real estate, utilities, and casinos, accumulating an estimated worth of around US$15 billion. His legacy lives on, with his offspring inheriting various businesses, including SJM Holdings, which operates the Karl Lagerfeld Hotel.
A Good Bet
In 2014, when the collaboration between SJM Holdings and Karl Lagerfeld was revealed, Lagerfeld expressed his philosophy to Women’s Wear Daily, stating, “I only make rooms where I would like to sleep.” Therefore, he was granted creative freedom to design a stunning 20-storey tower within the Grand Lisboa Palace Complex, accompanied by future projects such as a Palazzo Versace hotel. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by an extravagant building that beautifully blends intricate European architecture with traditional Chinese motifs.
All or Nothing
Upon entering the hotel, guests are immersed in a uniquely designed lobby that was revealed during the opening celebrations. I accompanied a friend to our Klassic room, one of 271 available accommodations, located on the 16th floor with views overlooking the serene courtyard gardens. The hotel’s design is a feast for the eyes, showcasing an explosion of black leather and rich, red velvets. Furthermore, the striking interiors feature zig-zagging carpets and dramatic lighting, creating an atmosphere of opulence.
High Rolling
The space is adorned with a Ming-era wooden sofa dressed in faux snakeskin and a visually captivating cherry blossom mural—elements that echo influences from various cultures. The bathroom combines sleek geometric floor tiles with luxurious black marble and striking gold accents. Notably, the hotel’s logo—a silhouette of Lagerfeld himself—can be found throughout the interior, adding a personal touch to the lavishly designed spaces. While undeniably high-end and extravagant, the overall mix of aesthetics may appeal to a niche audience, making the experience truly unique.
