In 2018, Autograph Collection Hotels, a distinctive array of independent hotels under Marriott International, unveiled RYSE in Hongdae, Seoul, famed for its artist designed suites. RYSE, designed by by globally renowned architect Michaelis Boyd, elegantly references the vibrant neighborhood of Hongdae, blending bare concrete with glossy pink flooring and contemporary art installations across the establishment. In total, the hotel boasts 272 guest rooms, including immersive art suites by groundbreaking artists such as Laurent Segretier and Charles Munka.
“Artists in general have a hard time promoting their work, whether it’s being represented by a gallery to showcase pieces or find venues to show off their work independently. At RYSE, we wanted to create a space where artists that we admire can express themselves and showcase their work freely,” remarked Zack Lee, RYSE’s Director of Culture, highlighting the hotel’s commitment to supporting local artists. Not to mention, the hotel is equipped with Risograph machines so local creatives or guests can participate in creating their own custom works.
Artist Chris Ro has turned a suite into more than just an art gallery; it’s an artwork in its own right. In crafting Artist Suite 1501, Ro aimed to capture the sensation of basking in sunlight, focusing particularly on the color yellow. Ro utilized a spatial and sensory approach to painting, incorporating the walls of the hotel to create a space that not only invites touch but also highlights specific pieces. This suite serves as an extension of the first floor’s Art Relay and reinforces RYSE’s longstanding partnership with Chris.
In another suite, GOBI presents immersive exhibitions of Los Angeles and Seoul landscapes by artists Scott Lee and Kyuhwa Moon. Their works, despite being 6,000 miles apart, share similarities and capture unnoticed moments. GOBI embeds hidden drawings throughout the room, inviting guests to discover pleasant surprises as they explore the space. Yeojoo’s Artist Suite 1504 features the series, symbolizing the transition between night and day and the ocean’s deepest layer where light reaches. Through this concept, Yeojoo aims to evoke a sense of boundary between time and space in her suite. The series is evident through the windows, lights, and other elements, creating a spectrum of colors and providing a refreshing space for relaxation and inspiration.
Last year, RYSE partnered with MSCHF to produce custom vinyl records as invitations for the group’s inaugural exhibition in Seoul titled ‘NOTHING IS SACRED’ at the Daelim Museum. These unique square-cut vinyl records were crafted using the hotel’s vinyl-cutter situated in the Side Note Club. Lee mentioned plans for further collaborations involving vinyl records, encouraging anticipation for future endeavors.
As for the hotel’s culinary offerings, it includes the restaurant Long Chim which offers Thai street food curated by Chef David Thompson, and Tartine Bakery & Café from San Francisco. The Side Note Club rooftop bar, managed by award-winning bartenders, offers creative cocktails and music by renowned DJs.RYSE also includes a fitness center, flagship retail space, and versatile meeting areas designed to encourage creativity and collaboration. The RYSE Gallery accommodates up to 300 guests, providing a space for gatherings and events.
RYSE is definitely one of the most standout establishments in Marriott International’s Autograph Collection of over 135 hotels, especially for those who have an appreciation for contemporary art, design and craft. “With every touchpoint thoughtfully-crafted and guest experience personally-curated, RYSE is the perfect addition to the collection; and we are thrilled to introduce it as the brand’s second hotel in the ever-evolving city of Seoul,” expressed Jennifer Connell, VP of Global Brand Marketing & Management at Autograph Collection Hotels at the time. Head to RYSE’s official website for more information.
RYSE, Autograph Collection
Mapo-gu, 130 Yanghwa-ro,
Seoul, South Korea
