SO/ Auckland has opened its doors, marking the seventh hotel to open in the SO collection.
“We’re ecstatic to finally open the doors to Auckland’s most audacious hotel,” said Stephen Gould, general manager, SO/ Auckland.
“It’s been an exciting journey with the global SO team since 2011 to prepare for opening including two years of immersion with the brand at SO/ Bangkok. Every touch of a SO/ hotel is unique to its location and thanks in large part to our signature designer WORLD, we have unlocked a destination truly unique to our shores.”
Fashion designers WORLD follow an elite selection of designers who have worked on the other SO properties, like Kenzo Takada, Christian Lacroix and Viktor&Rolf. WORLD has brought a playful and energetic touch to the hotel which can be seen in everything including the staff uniforms, wallpaper, artwork, neon art installation and the hotel’s emblem.
Benny Castles, designer and director, WORLD.
“We knew from the outset this was a very special project to collaborate on. Our role was to create an experience that helped guests and visitors leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind and welcome them into a new world. Now SO/ Auckland has opened, I’m beyond excited to see the reaction,” said Benny Castles, designer and director, WORLD.
The HI-SO rooftop bar features expansive views of the Waitemata Harbour and Rangitoto Island. SO/ Auckland’s Harbour Society restaurant on the 15th floor is home to French Chef Marc De Passorio, renowned as the former owner of Michelin-starred restaurant L’Esprit de la Violette.
“I’m so pleased to have touched down in my new beautiful home. In 2012 I visited New Zealand for the first time and fell in love with the country; the fantastic produce and wine as well as the amazing scenery wherever you go, fresh air and generous, friendly people,” said De Passorio.
The property’s furniture and lighting were handled Dutch design house Moooi. In particular, the Mega Chandelier created by Marcel Wanders at Mixo Bar on the ground floor entrance will catch guests’ attention.
Lastly, the hotel features SO/ Spa to cater to all guests’ beauty, wellness and relaxation needs. Himalayan detox therapy, Tibetan sound healing, chakra balancing and peeling Chlorella masks are available to relax and revitalise all types of spa-goers.
