Located at the southern end of Hainan Island in the city of Sanya, China, the complex focuses on two conceptual design elements: a “lighthouse” for the hotel and serviced apartment tower, and a complementary “rock formation” for the convention center.

The 46-story hotel and serviced apartment tower rises from a conceptual outcropping of rock to become an iconic symbol of Haitang Bay, its glowing beacon visible from any direction. A unique resort in the sky, the building is organized vertically, with the arrival sequence, landscape, and incorporation of water and views all considered integral to the guest experience. The amenity-rich resort is purposely designed to be intimate and exclusive, offering a limited 246 generously sized rooms—all with ocean views and individual terraces, some with their own plunge pool. The 465 serviced apartments are located in the main tower, which sits immediately behind the low, linear bar of hotel rooms. The top of the tower features a multilevel club for the exclusive use of the apartment residents and culminates in the iconic “lighthouse beacon.”

The Sanya Forum is designed as a premier convention facility, catering to national and international economic and political summits, as well as a variety of other meetings and special events. The building’s rock-like mass is designed to be bold yet approachable. Once inside, a unique volume of space opens across multiple levels, with areas for meetings and formal ceremonies. The multifunctional building accommodates large events with an exhibition hall, a ballroom, and forum space that can serve formal state gatherings, as well as private weddings and parties. The building also provides a variety of other meeting spaces, along with a large VIP meeting, gathering and reception area at the top with an outdoor terrace overlooking the ocean. The design culminates in the private rooftop garden, with exclusive spaces juxtaposed against expansive ocean views.