This is very much like living in a cross between the Tate modern and an eco resort with a dose of European sensibility.
What a great place to stay..walking around the hotel itself was a delight and full of surprises. The food was spectacular and unexpected in Beijing and the room was the definition of an oasis

What a fabulous hotel! One of the best we have ever stayed in. The room was gorgeous with fantastic design features. Loved the free Wi-fi and the complimentary mini bar was a nice touch. The staff were friendly and really helpful, even offering to go out and get me credit for my phone. The manager came out and personally introduced himself to us, wishing us a happy anniversary - the personal touch was appreciated. The whole place was really chilled which we liked a lot. An awesome experience and a place we would highly recommend to anyone. There is no hotel that compares in Beijing!

The hotel has a great design with large rooms around the theme of wood. Everything is very comfortable, well thought and well executed. Staff are very friendly, young and efficient. There is no desk in the lobby but rather it is designed as a living room with large sofas where staff greets you and check you in with their tablets. Very very cool and smooth.
The area is not very central for the main touristic destinations (e.g. Tian an Mens square, forbidden city, etc.). However, the subway is ot too far, is efficient and very cheap.
The area of Sunlitan where the hotel is located is very hype, full of trendy stores and bars. Nightlife is intense.
A very good choice for my second stay in Beijing!

We picked this hotel on the recommendation of a local friend as we wanted to avoid the guilded grandeur that seems to characterize most upscale hotels.
We also wanted an area where we could walk out and find a local deli, cafes or restaurant without getting stuck in horrendous traffic as we were traveling with kids.

Sanlitun is 21st century Beijing as described earlier. A well heeled, arty chinese crowd mingles with equally hip foreigners + the spill over staff from embassies that surround the shopping village.
So by any standard, this is not really China, but a projection of the trendiest it can be. And its done to perfection.
The architecture is fab, the rooms well appointed and there is great art on display everywhere.
The lounge and "Sureno" restaurant clearly attract a glam crowd. The food was delicious.
The raw bar (sashimi) at the Asian fusion restaurant is as good as any Tokyo selection. The rest of the menu is very odd, even for seasoned asia expats.

The staff is young and cool and always hanging out in the lobby. Make sure you catch them for a chat, they have lots of tips and recommendations to share.