Perched atop a cliff along the scenic Jeju Olle Trail, the design follows a principle of ‘living with the land and designing with the land’. An abstract interpretation of Korea’s indigenous Choga architecture and unique landscape, the centerpiece is a remarkable yet unobtrusive cantilever roof. Alluding to the porosity of Jeju’s volcanic stone and ensuring the building did not become cavernous, skylights were dotted throughout. The public space was centralized and flanked by guests wings, allowing the overall scale to be brought down while preserving scene-stealing views from the public roads and through the heart of the resort. Inspired by Jeju's ubiquitous stone stacked walls, a gabion screen panel system holds hand-selected rocks in place with intentional gaps to withstand the island’s distinctive strong winds and to create highly textural walls that breathe and filter light. A destination that draws in a diverse mix of guests seeking rejuvenation and connection to nature, the design honors Jeju’s unique spirit of place, seamlessly merging a rich natural legacy with a modern, sustainable lifestyle that aligns perfectly with the region’s burgeoning wellness tourism market.
Bio Founded in Honolulu in 1945 by George ‘Pete’ Wimberly, WATG is the preeminent leader in integrated luxury hospitality design. Comprising five studios – Advisory, Master Planning, Architecture, Landscape and Wimberly Interiors, WATG design spaces that respect, protect and enhance the natural magic of their surroundings while delivering long-term value for clients and communities. As of 2023, its global yet local team across offices in Honolulu, Tustin (California), Los Angeles, New York, London, Singapore and Shanghai – has designed and delivered over 500 built projects in 170 countries.
Other prizes AGA KHAN AWARD FOR ARCHITECTURE 1981-83 Cycle Tanjong Jara Resort, Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia WORLD ARCHITECTURE FESTIVAL 2019 2019 Hotel + Leisure Completed Buildings - Shortlisted Nobu Hotel Los Cabos SINGAPORE INSTITUTE OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS Gold Award 2019 2019 Jinshuo Hotel + Resort, China CREDAWARD 2020, Mixed-Use Silver The Ritz-Carlton Xi'an Mixed-Use AHEAD GLOBAL 2022, Transport / Winner Belmond Venice-Simplon-Orient Express PARIS DESIGN AWARDS 2022 2022 Urban Design - International La Cadiere Lake City, China The International Hotel & Property Awards 2023 Best Hotel Design APAC Yanbai Villa, Beijing China HOSPITALITY DESIGN MAGAZINE 2023 2023 Best Suites Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
