Commercial  ·  Interiors

GO WITH THE YING’NFLO

November 30, 2023

TEXT MONISHA SIVANESAN
IMAGES COURTESY OF LANGHAM HOSPITALITY GROUP

BURSTING WITH YOUTHFUL ENERGY IS YING’NFLO, OFFERING HONG KONG’S NEWEST SMART GUEST EXPERIENCE FOR THE DIGITAL AGE GENERATION OF URBAN DWELLERS.

In celebration of Langham Hospitality Group’s 20th anniversary, the youth-centric Ying’nFlo – an upper midscale hospitality brand – with its sociable lifestyle approach, accented with emerging music and art, was launched. Geared at capturing the bold, optimistic spirit of Millennials and GenZers across the globe, its first tourism-positive destination, as part of its rapid expansion plan, lies in the colourful district of Wan Chai, Hong Kong. Established yet eclectic, this is the perfect neighbourhood to kickstart the brand’s journey thanks to good transport links and a close proximity to cultural attractions and nightlife spots. 
 
Tasked for their philosophy of celebrating daily moments through design, and transforming mundane spaces into performative acts, was Linehouse, the architecture and interior design practice who designed the property to feel like an upgraded version of an artsy friend’s apartment. The team created spaces for inquisitive, urban travellers searching for a practical, well-designed place to stay – at an affordable price, of course.
Conceptually, it combines a simple, stylish and comfort-driven design with brilliant basics and vibrant splashes which are efficiently executed with a strong social vibe. Lightly hued walls, timbered ceilings, terracotta brick floors and colourful patterned tiles were chosen to bring it to life. Soft, natural lighting encourages an open environment and inspires new connections between the interior and exterior terraces and entrances. Similarly, café-style lobbies and flexible workspaces provide opportunities for spontaneous interactions and creative meetings.

Its function as a playground for emerging artists and musicians is evident through its dedication to featuring rich tapestries of art in all its forms. It hosts urban art experiences such as the vividly bold outdoor mural in Hong Kong, created by Berlin-based urban artist Josephine Rais, that blends into the hub’s scene. Curated music lists also play in the background, and on social channels, to showcase emerging talents.
Keeping up with its tech savvy guests, every one of them can connect with every aspect of their stay from the palm of their hand with the Ying’nFlo app. It can be used as a digital keycard, check-in/check-out device, room facilities control (think television, air-conditioning and lighting), as well as a food and beverage payment option when using the vending machine or cafe. A messaging feature is available to connect to in-house services, make requests and get in touch with staff before arrival. Alternatively, guests can save time checking-in by using the on-site kiosk.

Recognising that no two guests would work and play the same way, guest rooms and common spaces not only look Instagrammably good but also offer multi-functional uses to allow guests to sleep, chill, eat and work with ease – on their own or with company. Executed to perfection, necessities include a powerful shower, comfy bed and other adaptable furniture, fast and reliable Wi-Fi, laundry station as well as smart home features, not to mention great coffee and hearty breakfasts. Some properties will even offer bike share services and retro table games to stimulate interactivity.
“In an ever-changing digital era, the Millennials and GenZers are hyperconnected digital natives who are seeking a level of personalization, authenticity, and digital touchpoints from a hospitality brand that they can call their own. Ying’nFlo offers this with a level of comfort and relaxation which gives this new generation of globally minded adventure seekers room to explore their creativity,” explains Brett Butcher, Chief Executive Officer of the Langham Hospitality Group.
For more information, please visit www.yingnflo.com