Ritz-Carlton Hotel and Residences

Astana, the new capital of the newly independent Republic of Kazakhstan, is being developed following a 2000 master plan by the Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa inspired by L'Enfant's plan for Washington, DC, with principal government buildings organized around a central mall. Our 60-storey Ritz-Carlton hotel and residences—to be the tallest building in Astana—is sited just off the mall. A grand glazed winter court will be a meeting place visiting dignitaries and diplomats sheltered from the city's climatic extremes. The 114-key hotel will provide banquet rooms and a state ballroom; above, 210 residences include numerous penthouses. The building sets back to reflect the program, rising to a glazed crown that will sparkle in the sunlight by day and glow like a lantern by night.

Project Partner: Grant Marani.