A classic reborn in the heart of Tokyo
A thoughtful renewal that honours legacy while embracing the rhythm of modern Shinjuku.
Originally built in 1984, the interiors of Hyatt Regency Shinjuku had remained largely unchanged for decades. GA approached the redesign as a careful rebirth, building on the strength of the hotel’s original character while preparing it for a new chapter.
Guided by the belief that understanding the past is essential to shaping the future, the design celebrates the building’s iconic bones and weaves in references to Shinjuku’s cultural energy. The result is a hotel that feels both familiar and newly alive.
Shinjuku Station, the busiest railway hub in the world, provided a powerful point of inspiration. Its constant movement and cadence informed the introduction of a central clock tower, conceived as the heartbeat of the lobby lounge. Integrated into the existing structure, the clock is framed by panelling and a bespoke bar, anchoring the space and drawing the eye.
With the hotel facing a national park but limited access to natural light, GA introduced planting and greenery to bring the landscape indoors. This creates a visual connection to the all-day dining area beyond, which looks out towards the gardens. Original hand-crafted circular tiles from 1984 were carefully retained and celebrated, with their geometry echoed in furniture layouts, lighting and detailing to bridge past and present.
Cross Roads All-Day Dining
Flowing directly from the lobby, Cross Roads acts as a transitional space between the interior and garden. Its design reflects Shinjuku’s dual character. West Shinjuku is calm and ordered, while the east is defined by nightlife, movement and colour.
This contrast is expressed spatially rather than literally. Seating areas reflect the quieter side of the district, while a central open kitchen becomes a point of energy and movement, a place guests naturally pass through. A striped floor marks this transition, subtly referencing the rhythm of Tokyo’s pedestrian crossings and capturing the spirit of the city through architecture and flow.
The redesign repositions Hyatt Regency Shinjuku as a hotel that respects its heritage while responding confidently to contemporary Tokyo. By retaining and reinterpreting original elements, the project strengthens the hotel’s identity and creates public spaces that feel grounded, dynamic and culturally connected.
