Fu’s design juxtaposes and harmonizes the contrasts of Osaka’s historic castles and temples with its sleek contemporary skyscrapers, weaving together Art Deco grandeur and meticulous Japanese craftsmanship to fuse the identities of the brand and the destination. “The aesthetic of Waldorf Astoria New York is central to the brand’s heritage, reflecting its iconic legacy,” says Fu. “Recognizing how this architectural period resonates within Osaka’s context, I sought to reinterpret Art Deco sensibilities with a fresh perspective, blending textures, colours, and forms to create a design that feels distinctly rooted in its locale yet unmistakably Waldorf Astoria.”