Positioned on the outer ring of Palm Jumeirah, the W Hotel and neighboring residential towers celebrate the contrasting views to the city’s urban skyline in one direction… and to the infinite sea horizon in the other. These contrasting views droves the form and texture of design elements throughout the property, exemplified by the juxtaposition of geometric shapes and manufactured materials against sinuous, organic curves and softer treatments.
The design team’s goals included establishing a “flirty, not sexy” identity that responded to gridded and organic forms. Experiential zones are focused at the intersection of these opposing notions. The expansive pool deck features a city-inspired pool and “party zone,” populated with cabanas reminiscent of buildings arranged on a city grid and oriented toward the incredible Dubai skyline. Adjacent to this pool, a series of sinuous, cascading pools transport visitors optically and physically down to the beach, where the two concepts converge in a stunning beach with a celebratory atmosphere.
Grand Mansion Hotel
The Grand Mansion Hotel sits atop a historical museum on the site of a former palace, the ruins of which have been preserved and are now an extension of the main museum exhibit, with parts that can be seen across the street. The overall design concept was to reinterpret a traditional leisure garden featuring Japanese cherry, bamboo, and maple trees, and the gr...
Marriott Marquis Hotel
The Houston Marriott Marquis Hotel takes advantage of its proximity to Discovery Green Park and the George R. Brown Convention Center with a distinctive arrival court, pedestrian-friendly streetscape, and clear connections to the Avenida de Las Americas and the new light rail station on Rusk Street. The SWA-designed 6th-floor amenity deck overlooks ...
Hyatt Gainey Ranch
The 28-acre site is part of an existing master planned resort community. The golf course and lake were existing. The owner wanted water gardens and had in mind tropical gardens with artificial rocks and rope bridges. The designers convinced the owner that a concept that recalled ancient South American themes was more appropriate for the desert. Lines of date p...
The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou
Blending Suzhou’s traditional artistry and craftsmanship with contemporary luxury, The Ritz-Carlton opened its first location in the city in early 2025 at the heart of the Suzhou Huamao Gu Su Li Mixed-Use Development. At ground level, the landscape design strikes a balance between refinement and function. A multi-use drop-off plaza sets a serene tone, anchored...