In 1896, Qing Dynasty diplomat Li Hongzhang checked into the Waldorf Astoria in New York and became its first Chinese guest. The Waldorf Astoria Beijing, a 176-room hotel in the heart of the capital, opened in February, not far from Li's historic home. It is the Waldorf's second branch in Asia, following its Bund-side Shanghai debut three years ago.

The Waldorf Astoria's Second China Property Melds Asian Craftsmanship, Modern Design.Deep-bronze latticework marks the Waldorf Astoria's exterior.The Waldorf Astoria is located just off Beijing's bustling Wangfujing pedestrian shopping boulevard. It is also just a 15-minute walk from the historic Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.

Deep-bronze latticework on its exterior, by Chicago firm AS+GG, gives the 12-story building the appearance of a glistening jewel box. The interior of the hotel was designed by American design master Yabu Pushelberg.

Though its feel is modern, the hotel pays homage to Asian craftsmanship with embroidered silk-panelled walls and black lacquered door frames. Another nod to its location: contemporary Chinese art in the public spaces, including a painting of an androgynous face by Ling Jian in the glamorous Peacock Alley lounge bar.

Instead of white-on-white, the guest rooms embrace a rainbow of vivid hues, from teal blue to persimmon. Designer Glenn Pushelberg describes them as "an exploration of color," made sophisticated with bronze accents, plush gray rugs and chocolate-colored wood flooring. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer views of the city's central shopping district and the tiled rooftops of the historic hutongs.

High-tech amenities include Apple TVs, iPod docking stations and a Samsung tablet by the bed to control the lighting, TV and curtains. They also extend to the bathrooms, which come equipped with heated floors and Japanese-style toilets along with Ferragamo bath products.