Living by the Lake, Anchoring in Pudong: Crafting a New Benchmark for Urban Eco-Living
ShanghaiApril 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Invested by Shanghai Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone New Development Co., Ltd., and constructed on behalf by Shanghai Senlan Waigaoqiao Hotel Co., Ltd., Somerset New Exhibition City Shanghai, managed by The Ascott Limited (hereinafter referred to as “Ascott”)—the lodging business unit under CapitaLand Investment—has officially opened. This milestone also marks the debut of the Somerset brand in the core area of the Pudong Free Trade Zone, offering a harmonious living space that blends business efficiency with natural comfort for urban elites and their families.
Leadership from both sides launch the “Green Planet,” officially inaugurating Somerset New Development Shanghai
Somerset New Exhibition City Shanghai is located in the Waigaoqiao area of Pudong, a district meticulously developed by Waigaoqiao Group Co., Ltd. It is an international demonstration community integrating commercial business, ecological living, and cultural leisure. The property borders the Senlan Green Ecological Core to the west and the outer ring green belt to the east, adjacent to the Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone’s New Exhibition City Park and the core radiation zone of the Jinqiao area. It is approximately 2.4 kilometers from Jinjing Road Station on Metro Line 12, offering a unique location advantage of “easy access to bustling urban life while retreating into natural tranquility.”
Exterior view of Somerset New Exhibition City Shanghai
As an international lodging brand present in 23 countries and 63 cities worldwide, capable of accommodating diverse business formats, “Harmonious Haven, Naturally Connected” is the core philosophy of Somerset. Somerset New Exhibition City Shanghai continues this concept in its design, drawing inspiration from “Coexisting with Nature.” The reception lobby seamlessly integrates ecological landscapes, while a sky garden is created on the top floor, making every return home feel like stepping into an urban sanctuary, offering guests a tranquil haven away from the noise. From deluxe studios to two-bedroom executive suites, the property’s 207 units are all equipped with energy-saving systems and natural ventilation designs, featuring a spacious 3.1-meter ceiling height. Most room types also include panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing guests to enjoy lake views and greenery at a glance. The interiors are fully furnished with home appliances and furniture, blending elegant style with a cozy, lived-in atmosphere, striking a balance between eco-friendliness and comfort.
Somerset New Exhibition City Shanghai – Two-Bedroom Deluxe Suite
Focusing on modern urban elites’ dual pursuit of efficient business and quality living, the property features a multi-dimensional public area system. Fully equipped multi-functional meeting rooms seamlessly support business travel and office needs, catering to various corporate meetings and conferences. The breakfast restaurant offers seasonal, balanced meals aligned with current health standards. A professional fitness center and spa pool provide a relaxing respite from a busy work schedule. The top-floor sky garden uses low-maintenance, high-carbon-sequestration plants and herbs to purify the air while creating a pleasant natural atmosphere. Additionally, the apartments are equipped with electric vehicle charging stations, integrating low-carbon concepts into daily living.
Somerset New Exhibition City Shanghai – Meeting Room
Somerset New Exhibition City Shanghai – Spa Pool
The grand opening ceremony was held on the morning of April 22, themed “Embrace the Forest Realm, Meet the Future,” presenting guests with an audio-visual experience blending natural inspiration and futuristic imagination. Guests signed in using wooden slices engraved with natural tree rings, immediately enveloped in a natural ambiance upon entry. A “Cube Tree Family Farm” set up in the lobby vividly illustrated the “farm-to-table” health concept. Creative handicraft activities using nutshells conveyed a green, low-carbon lifestyle philosophy, showcasing the sustainable development core of the Somerset brand. Leaders from relevant Pudong New Area departments, senior executives of Ascott China, representatives from Shanghai Waigaoqiao Group Co., Ltd., Shanghai Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone New Development Co., Ltd., and Shanghai Senlan Waigaoqiao Commercial Operation Center Co., Ltd., along with guests from various sectors, attended the event to witness this significant moment.
Mr. Shao Yuping, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee and General Manager of Shanghai Waigaoqiao Group, stated: “As a key force under Waigaoqiao Group Co., Ltd. dedicated to regional supporting facility development, we have always upheld the mission of improving the business environment and quality of life in the Free Trade Zone. This collaboration with internationally renowned lodging management company Ascott is both an important decision in our layout of the high-end lodging track and a crucial step in enhancing the region’s high-end service infrastructure.”
Mr. Lin Gaoshi, Regional General Manager of Ascott China East China, said: “Since entering Shanghai in 1998, the Somerset brand has consistently strived to create suitable living spaces for guests of all ages. This is the brand’s first entry into the Waigaoqiao area and a significant step in our layout of northern Shanghai. The opening of Somerset New Exhibition City Shanghai will further enhance Ascott’s brand influence in China’s core urban circles and help the Shanghai Free Trade Zone build a more attractive international business environment.”
Mr. Jiang Sheng, Deputy General Manager of Somerset New Exhibition City Shanghai, added: “In the future, the property will offer international-level services, creating a living experience that combines comfort and sustainability for high-end business travelers, family tourists, and short-term business visitors coming to and from the Free Trade Zone. From soundproof, energy-efficient rooms and morning yoga on the rooftop garden to seasonal fresh delicacies in the restaurant, we are committed to helping every guest find a balance between efficient business and pleasant living, leaving warm and healing memories with every stay.”
Somerset New Exhibition City Shanghai has now joined Ascott’s global membership loyalty program—ASR (Ascott Star Rewards). Members can accumulate points during their stay, unlocking benefits such as mileage rewards and car rental privileges, enjoying the exclusive “Stay Rewarded” experience and wonderful moments throughout every journey.