Mandarin Oriental Unveils Historic Dual Renovation of Its Flagship Hotels in Hong Kong and Bangkok

Source: Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group

Reported By: Caroline Dalal

In a move that underscores both legacy and vision, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has announced a landmark renovation of its two founding properties: Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong and Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok. Unprecedented in scope, the simultaneous revitalization of these cornerstone hotels marks a defining moment in the brand’s history—a commitment not just to modernization, but to crafting the next chapter of luxury travel with intention and grace.

These comprehensive transformations, which coincide with the Bangkok property’s 150th anniversary and Hong Kong’s continued role as a global hospitality benchmark, reflect the Group’s strategic evolution under Chief Executive Laurent Kleitman. “We elevate our brand and invest in our legacy hotels to ensure we continue to be sought after and loved by future generations,” said Kleitman. The message is clear: heritage matters, but so does the future.

Since opening its doors in 1963, Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong has stood as a cultural and architectural landmark in the city’s Central district. With an investment of over USD $100 million, the hotel’s upcoming renovation will preserve its iconic identity while propelling it into a new realm of refined luxury. The design team reads like a who’s who of global talent—French designer Hubert de Malherbe will reimagine public spaces, while Jeffrey Wilkes and Thierry Lemaire bring their distinctive touch to guestrooms and newly introduced residential-style apartments.

A completely transformed lobby and lounge will serve as a dynamic new entry point, complemented by the debut of a Whisky Bar and cigar divan, promising a new level of sophistication. The Mandarin Spa will expand into a next-generation Wellness Club, designed as a serene sanctuary that draws from Hong Kong’s cultural rhythm and energy.

Dining takes on fresh character with Chef Daniele Cason launching an exclusive pizza counter inspired by his award-winning Tokyo concept, and The Mandarin Grill + Bar undergoing a thoughtful redesign. The Krug Room, the Clipper Lounge, and even the beloved Cake Shop will all receive updated interiors.

Perhaps the most headline-worthy culinary addition, however, comes via Michelin-starred Chef Daniel Boulud. In a landmark debut for Hong Kong, Boulud will introduce a new rooftop dining destination atop LANDMARK PRINCE’S, accessible via an enclosed walkway from the hotel. With sweeping views of Victoria Harbour and a day-to-night culinary program, the venue is poised to redefine Central’s social and dining landscape.

The renovation is set to begin in Q2 2025 and continue through late 2026 in four strategic phases, with hotel operations remaining uninterrupted for much of the process.

Across the South China Sea, another legend prepares for its renaissance. Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok—often referred to as the “Grande Dame of the East”—will complete a series of enhancements ahead of its 150th anniversary celebrations in 2026. Following the successful restoration of the River Wing in 2019, this next phase centers on the Author’s and Garden Wings, with interiors once again guided by Jeffrey Wilkes. Inspired by the property’s lush riverside gardens, the redesign highlights Thai craftsmanship and residential comfort.

Dining remains integral to the hotel's enduring appeal. At Le Normandie, a culinary milestone is set as Chef Anne-Sophie Pic—one of the world’s most awarded female chefs—makes her Thai debut in late 2025. Her delicate and precise cuisine will be framed by a newly reimagined interior that blends French refinement with Thai elegance.

Chef Alex Dilling will reintroduce Lord Jim’s with a fresh fire-focused culinary concept, prioritizing seasonality and convivial dining. At The China House, Michelin-starred Chef Fei will bring his acclaimed contemporary Cantonese cuisine to Bangkok, with a focus on Chaosan flavors. And Baan Phraya, the hotel’s riverside Thai restaurant, will be reborn through architectural upgrades and an expanded herb garden supporting Chef Pom’s deeply rooted and sustainable culinary philosophy.

The property’s wellness offerings will also evolve with a redesigned Fitness Centre that merges traditional Thai practices with international vitality programs.

More than architectural renovations or new restaurants, these dual projects symbolize Mandarin Oriental’s enduring belief in cultural stewardship, innovation, and excellence. By collaborating with world-renowned chefs, interior designers, and local artisans, the brand reinforces its status as both guardian and re-inventor of global hospitality.

In Hong Kong, the investment aligns with larger revitalization efforts in the Central district, including the Group’s renovation of The Landmark Mandarin Oriental and the USD $1 billion "Tomorrow’s CENTRAL" project by Hongkong Land. In Bangkok, the legacy is equally profound—150 years of history, reimagined for the century ahead.

As both renovations unfold, Mandarin Oriental sends a clear message to travelers, tastemakers, and the industry at large: the past may define us, but how we transform it defines the future.