London-based studio Holloway Li has been appointed by tourism and hospitality group Tripolers to develop the interior design strategy for its debut boutique spa-hotel amidst the Singing Sand Dunes of Dunhuang, China.
Nestled within a natural oasis along the historic Silk Road, Tripolers Oasis Hotel will draw inspiration from dramatic desert vistas and the nearby UNESCO-listed Mogao Caves.
The resort—positioned in a lush, working vineyard at the edge of the dunes—will feature 15 private villas strategically placed along the edge of the site to maximize privacy and offer views of the surrounding dunes. Two-story suite blocks, boasting roof terraces with uninterrupted vistas, will be situated deeper within the vineyard.
Holloway Li’s design concept aims to create a transformative guest experience that reflects a physical and spiritual journey.
The arrival experience
Upon arrival, guests will enter a serene drop-off area comprising four intimate single-story pavilions housing the reception area, lounge, boutique shop, bar, and refreshment deck. These pavilions will be thoughtfully arranged to symbolize a gesture of embrace to further extend a warm welcome onsite.
A courtyard will feature naturally sculpted stone and a weathered Huyang tree—both shaped by the desert climate—that emphasize the hotel’s philosophy of celebrating nature in its purest form.
An array of amenities
Public spaces—including a restaurant, bar and lounge, chef’s table, and luxurious spa rooms—will be connected by golden sandy courtyards that lead to a tranquil outdoor pool with panoramic views of the Singing Sand Dunes.
A fire-pit area, meanwhile, extends into the desert, to provide a unique setting for private dining or stargazing.
Design details of Tripolers Oasis Hotel
Inspired by wabi-sabi philosophy, the design emphasizes simplicity, imperfection, and the passage of time. Reclaimed materials, for example, will be employed to create spaces that feel both rustic and refined.
Earthy tones and natural materials—like clay, teak, and stone—will add warmth to the interiors, while carefully curated furniture and artwork will celebrate the beauty of local craftsmanship and the rich cultural history of the area.
The design of the guestrooms will be rooted in the local heritage of Dunhuang, influenced by the traditional murals found in the Mogao Caves, where monks, merchants, and travelers have sought rest for centuries. The color schemes are guided by the three primary pigments—Tubai (clary white), Shashi (sandy yellow), and Zhusha (earthy red)—reinforcing a deep connection between the guest experience and the region’s legacy.
“We were stunned by the incredible site for Tripolers Oasis Hotel and the opportunity to create a truly world-class offering,” says Na Li, managing director of Holloway Li. “We are excited to work alongside our long-term local collaborators GAD and Z’scape to bring this breathtaking scheme to life.”
Tripolers Oasis Hotel is slated for completion in 2026.
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