Shangri-La hotels and resorts is to invest US $130 million in renovations in 2002-2003.

With 38 properties, Shangri-La Hotels and resorts is the largest Asian-based luxury hotel group in the region.

A spokesperson for the group says they want renovations to bring a contemporary look to the hotels, encompassing everything from uniforms worn by employees, to signage.

Florida-based Bilkey Llinas, Hong Kong-based BUZdesign and Singapore-based Wilson Architects, will work on public areas and room design. New restaurants, lobby lounges and bars will be designed by Warner Wong, New York-based Adam D. Tihany and Tokyo design group Super Potato.

Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Shangri-La, Giovanni Angelini says: 'With the strategic investment in renovations, we will further enhance our hotels' appeal, by creating a dynamic new look.'

Hotels which will undergo renovations include the Shangri-La hotel, Kuala Lumpur, which is having a tropical oasis built in its lobby. This will include a water garden, a waterfall and landscaping. In the Shangri-La hotel, Bangkok, a new bar is being built, which will overlook the Chao Phyra River. It will feature 'flying angels' - servers, who will 'fly' from an existing bar on the first floor, to the new bar on the mezzanine, via cables attached to their specially designed harnesses.

Bedrooms will be given a new look, with the focus on modern luxury, rather than hard-edged minimalism. Warm-hued woods, luxurious bedding and earthy colours will be used for decoration. Ergonomic desks, flat-screen Philips TV's and a relaxation area in each room, will complete the renovations.

Attention will be paid to local cultures in the design and renovation of all the hotels. Angelini says: 'The innovative designs will strengthen Shangri-La's reputation for offering luxurious accommodation and Asian-style hospitality.'

Shangri-La is also developing a new spa concept, using pure materials such as wood and textured stone, along with ethnic elements. Water will play a major role in the spas which will feature water fountains, water gardens and hydrotherapy treatments.