Patina set to revamp Tianjin's Italian image

A Singapore-based hotel group has entered the crowded hotel market in the North China municipality of Tianjin.

On Jan 6, Hebei district in Tianjin and Capella Hotel Group announced Patina, under the Capella brand, will begin to revitalize and convert 17 heritage buildings in Tianjin's Italian Style Area into hotel facilities.

With a total investment of 625 million yuan ($86.9 million), Patina Tianjin will cover about 18,000 square meters, and the renovated 17 heritage buildings will accommodate more than 150 guest rooms when the hotel complex opens in 2025.

"It is expected to bring new inspiration and vitality to the Italian Style Area. Moreover, as a historical urban cultural neighborhood, the renovation of the area is conducive to the enhancement of Tianjin's distinctive culture," said Dai Lei, head of Hebei district. "It is worth noting that the Italian Style Area is the best preserved and largest collection of Italian-style buildings outside Italy."

Cristiano Rinaldi, president of Capella Hotel Group, said: "True to the Patina ethos, the hotel emphasizes sustainable practices and eco-friendly operations. It promises a unique blend of modern luxury and the historical heritage of Tianjin's Italian Style Area, immersing guests in an unforgettable experience about the soul and essence of Tianjin."

Statistics from Horwath, a hotel market consultancy company, show that compared to 2019, the 2023 accommodation rate of high-end hotels in Tianjin surged by 10 percent and the average room rate rose by 20 to 25 percent.

"Our latest investigation shows the hotel market in Tianjin has observed incremental growth and market potential on the demand side," said Fan Yichun, consultant of Horwath Hotel Management Consultant (Beijing).

"In the post-pandemic era, demand for vacation tours is soaring there, leading to a higher accommodation rate in the high-end hotel market, and an increase in casual guests."