Studio HBA Singapore Turns Taichung's Sakurada Department Store Into an 80-Key Hotel

Oku Hotel Taichung has taken over the former Sakurada Department Store, a landmark in Taichung's historic Central District, with interiors by Studio HBA Singapore. The 80-key property was conceived under the idea of 'The Department of Travellers' Tales', framing the hotel as the accumulated collection of a fictional traveller rather than a straight heritage restoration.

Arrival is through a triple-height lobby of soaring arches, metallic finishes and custom detailing, with mezzanine walkways and galleries looking down on the floor below. The atrium is pierced by the multi-storey liquor tower of Ailìse Bar, where an emerald-green fluted counter topped in white stone is set against mirrored surfaces, sculptural lighting and velvet stools.

The design reads French Art Deco through a contemporary filter: symmetrical geometric patterns, fluted metallic details, bronze accents and decorative screening, in deep navy blue, peacock green, warm gold and polished stone, over herringbone timber floors. Guestrooms pair floor-to-ceiling windows and heavy velvet drapery with bespoke furniture and geometric wall features; bathrooms have marble finishes, brass-framed glass partitions and freestanding tubs.