Heralding a new era of Asian hospitality, The PuLi Group will launch next year as a collection of luxury hotels. Marking the evolution of the award-winning Shanghai property from a standalone hotel into a growing global portfolio spanning the world’s most dynamic destinations.
The PuLi Group’s Launch
Victor Clavell, newly appointed Chief Executive Officer, will spearhead the group’s vision and development. Drawing on PuLi’s Chinese meaning of ‘uncarved jade’, the brand will continue to embody its philosophy of understated elegance, thoughtful design, and deep cultural connection. To begin, The PuLi portfolio will comprise three properties: The PuLi Shanghai, the inaugural flagship which opened in 2009, and its sister hotels, the white-label properties The PuXuan in Beijing and The RuMa in Kuala Lumpur.
Initial expansion will focus on key Asian cities including Seoul, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Singapore, and Bangkok, followed by further ventures into hotels, resorts, branded residences, and retail across the globe. By 2035, The PuLi Group aims to operate 20 hotels (with an additional nine in development), branded residences, and an expanding retail presence – maintaining 80% of its footprint in Asia and 20% internationally.
A Transformed Shanghai Vision
To mark this new chapter, The PuLi Shanghai will undergo a complete renovation over the next year. Working closely with the property’s owners, Clavell will steer the property with a focus on creating spaces of serenity and connection that feel both contemporary and rooted in culture.
The PuLi Shanghai’s renovation is scheduled for completion in summer 2026. The transformation will be delivered in phases, with the hotel remaining fully operational. Layan Design Studio, behind the original interiors, returns to honour The PuLi’s East Asian heritage whilst integrating modern Western forms.
Interior Detailing
Each guestroom will be curated as a collector’s home, with bespoke furniture, original Chinese artworks and literature. Public spaces including the Lobby, The Library, and The Long Bar will be refreshed, blending craftsmanship and contemporary artistry.
The new dedicated wellness floor promises a fresh benchmark for holistic wellbeing, offering guests and members a true sanctuary for movement, nourishing cuisine, social wellness experiences, and practices that promote deep, restorative sleep. Highlights include the Hair Up Bar offering complimentary daily styling, a Bastien Gonzalez nail bar, and a wellness membership programme offering exclusive access and benefits. The property will also debut a 377sqm penthouse, featuring an outdoor terrace with panoramic views. This space will accommodate everything from milestone celebrations to private entertaining.
Culinary Evolution
The PuLi Shanghai will debut two new dining destinations: The PuLi Bar & Grill – a refined dining experience – and an intimate eight-seat omakase restaurant designed by Spin Design Studio.
The iconic Long Bar, a celebrated Shanghai social institution, will also be reimagined, unveiling a new sensory cocktail programme that mixes Eastern and Western influences. Both The Long Bar and The PuLi Bar & Grill will become signature concepts across all future The PuLi properties.
