Project: Kimpton Aqeos Hainan
Architecture: YANG & Associates Group
Location: Clear Water Bay, Lingshui County, Hainan, China
Year: 2025
Photo Credits: As You See – Wang Ting
Located in the pristine Clear Water Bay of Lingshui County, Kimpton Aqeos Hainan marks the debut of the Kimpton brand in Greater China. Surrounded by untouched tropical landscapes and the shimmering South China Sea, the resort redefines luxury through authenticity, creativity, and environmental sensitivity. With its blend of architecture, art, and atmosphere, it offers a modern sanctuary that feels at once global and deeply rooted in Hainan’s natural spirit.
A Transformation Rooted in Renewal
The site began as a long-abandoned, unfinished hotel complex originally intended for an international five-star brand. Spanning more than 83,000 square meters and housing 500 guest rooms, its sheer scale symbolized grand ambition—but also posed immense design challenges. When the project was revived, the team undertook a holistic redesign encompassing architecture, interiors, FF&E, and art curation. The result is a resort reborn—an elegant balance between avant-garde sophistication and a welcoming, social atmosphere.
A Fictional Muse and a Contemporary Vision
The concept behind Kimpton Aqeos Hainan draws inspiration from a fictional muse—a worldly traveler, art collector, and environmentalist. Her spirit informs every detail of the design, from curated artworks to bespoke furnishings. The resort embodies her philosophy: slow living, mindful discovery, and refined comfort. This narrative transforms the resort into an experiential journey rather than a mere destination, inviting guests to explore spaces that surprise, soothe, and inspire.
Redefining Hospitality Spaces
Defying conventional hotel planning, the lobby functions not as a transitional zone but as an “Art Atrium” and “Living Room.” A fireplace anchors the space, surrounded by sculptural seating and lush tropical greenery. The rhythm of seven infinity water features, complemented by curated art installations, invites guests to pause and engage with their surroundings.
Dining venues follow this same principle of immersive storytelling. The all-day dining restaurant, Chinese restaurant, Japanese restaurant, and two distinct bars each present their own aesthetic and cultural identity. Together, they create a sequence of spaces that echo Kimpton’s signature blend of artistry and approachability. For recreation, the Games Chamber combines billiards, chess, and film in a refined lounge setting, while the e-sports center caters to a younger generation’s lifestyle and connectivity.
Light, Structure, and Sustainability
Overcoming the constraints of the existing structure became an architectural feat. To enhance openness and light, a triangular grid system was introduced in the atrium, creating rhythm and visual depth while maintaining flexibility. Skylights above the canopy bring in natural light and fresh air, transforming the central atrium into a semi-open, naturally ventilated environment. This passive design strategy reduces reliance on artificial lighting and HVAC systems, improving energy efficiency without compromising comfort.
Guest rooms extend the muse’s personal narrative through handcrafted details and eclectic art pieces. Each space feels intimate yet expressive, encouraging guests to slow down and reconnect with themselves and the landscape beyond the windows.
A New Definition of Contemporary Luxury
At Kimpton Aqeos Hainan, luxury moves beyond material excess to embrace authenticity, culture, and well-being. Every detail—from the curated artwork to the scent of sea air—encourages reflection and sensory engagement. The resort stands not only as a destination but as an experience of renewal, where design, nature, and the human spirit coexist in perfect harmony.
