Banyan Tree Zhuhai Phoenix Bay

Located between mountains and the sea, the resort overlooks the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and Zhuhai Opera House, offering uninterrupted views of the coastline. With a total area of approximately 42,000 sqm, the resort includes 83 ocean-facing guestrooms, each larger than 85 sqm. Drawing inspiration from “Lingnan Waterscape · Fisherman’s Heritage,” the design explores the relationship between Zhuhai’s Tanka fishing culture, Lingnan architectural traditions, and contemporary coastal hospitality. The narrow and elongated site presented a unique challenge. Rather than treating the elongated circulation as a constraint, the design transforms the 150-metre corridor into a journey of gradual discovery. Through a sequence of courtyards, water features, and framed views, guests move through different layers of space before arriving at their destination. The lobby lounge, dim sum restaurant, and barbecue bar are positioned along the waterfront, allowing the ocean to remain a constant presence throughout the public areas. The design draws from local memories and architectural elements, including boat houses, Lingnan gable walls, fishing-net inspired lighting, and traditional window patterns. These references are abstracted through contemporary detailing rather than direct reproduction, creating a connection between local identity and modern resort living. Along the corridor edges, previously overlooked spaces are converted into dining areas facing the sea, creating a closer relationship between daily activities and the coastal landscape. Sustainability is integrated into both spatial planning and material choices. Public corridors rely on natural ventilation and passive cooling instead of air conditioning, allowing guests to engage directly with the sea breeze and the changing coastal atmosphere. Local coastal rocks are used within the landscape, while durable materials such as wood-grain aluminium provide the warmth of timber while withstanding high humidity, salt exposure, and typhoon conditions. By transforming geographical constraints into spatial opportunities, the design redifines a coastal sanctuary where regional culture, ecological sensitivity, and contemporary hospitality exist in quiet harmony.