However, one tiny hotel means to add a boutique twist to the Bund’s ranks of architectural dreadnoughts. The 19-room Waterhouse at South Bund, expected to open next month, is located at the new Cool Docks development and if it’s anything like it’s stunning Singaporean sister, super-sexy New Majestic, Shanghai bound travellers are in for a treat. The design of the restored 1930s building blurs the lines between private and public spaces, with double-height timber interiors blended with state-of-the-art technology and a modern elegant persona. Despite its more humble origins, the stunning new Waterhouse represents a fresh beginning for the Bund and the best spot to watch the sun set over its colonial relics is the rooftop terrace bar.

Clearly Shanghai’s second act is a bit more groovy.

Waterhouse at South Bund
Maojiayuan Road 1-3, Huangpu District, Shanghai, www.thewaterhouseatsouthbund.com

Nuts & Bolts
A new boutique hotel in Shanghai brings a new buzz to the Bund.
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