Shanghai's North Bund Welcomes the World's First Ritz-Carlton 'Urban Reserve' Hotel!
In March this year, executives of Marriott Group revealed that they are planning the Ritz-Carlton "Urban Reserve" hotel concept. This series differs from the previous Ritz-Carlton focus on "hidden reserves" in mountains, rivers, lakes, seas, dense forests, and isolated islands, instead focusing on core global cities, targeting travelers who crave an escape experience but are unwilling to endure long-haul flights. (See Orange Bay Sports' previous report)
On August 20, Marriott Group officially announced: Shanghai's North Bund will welcome the world's first Ritz-Carlton "Urban Reserve" hotel!
Marriott International Group and Shanghai SIIC North Bund New Landmark Construction and Development Co., Ltd. have officially signed a cooperation agreement. The hotel will be located at Plot 91, North Bund, Shanghai, with a planned building height of 480 meters and 103 floors. Upon completion, it will become the tallest building in Puxi, featuring a mix of retail, office, observation, and other diverse formats.
The hotel will occupy floors 66 to 78, with plans for 110 guest rooms and suites, including presidential suites and other room types. Some rooms will overlook the Bund's historic buildings or the majestic river view. The hotel is expected to open in 2030.
Pile foundation construction for Plot 91 on Shanghai's North Bund began in 2023. By the end of 2025, the main tower base had exceeded 100 meters, and it is expected to surpass 300 meters in 2026. Upon completion, the building will be equipped with 107 vertical elevators and 30 escalators.
Since its inception in 2009, Ritz-Carlton Reserve has adhered to the site selection criterion of "rare places far from the madding crowd," and currently operates fewer than 10 properties globally. In China, there are two Ritz-Carlton Reserve hotels: Jiuzhaigou, Sichuan (now open); Crescent Moon Spring, Dunhuang (scheduled to open in 2029).
Above: Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Jiuzhaigou
Above: Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Crescent Moon Spring, Dunhuang
In its press release, Marriott Group stated that as an important gateway connecting China to the world, Shanghai has a mature international customer base and continuously upgraded luxury travel demand; the North Bund, with its prime location along the Huangpu River, complements the Bund's historic architecture and Lujiazui's skyscraper cluster, providing unique conditions for a Ritz-Carlton Reserve to create a tranquil sanctuary amidst the bustling city.
Tina Edmundson, President of Luxury at Marriott Group, said at the signing ceremony for the Shanghai Ritz-Carlton Reserve: "Greater China has always been a crucial strategic highland in Marriott International's global growth map. Bringing the Ritz-Carlton Reserve to Shanghai today marks another significant leap for our luxury portfolio in China. Shanghai, with its profound cultural heritage, vibrant innovation, and ideal luxury travel ecosystem, perfectly fits the unique positioning of 'Urban Reserve'."
| Source: Official press release, Orange Bay Sports historical reports
| Image source: Marriott official