Vibrant tones, warm air, a relaxing vibe—that’s pretty much a staple of resort design for many projects. But, beyond that general vision, designers have plenty of room to play. For the four-year, US$40 million renovation and rebranding of the St. Barths’ Le Guanahani, the team of managing director, Martein van Wagenberg and creative consultants from David M. Schwarz Architects, Luis Pons Design Lab and Pentagram wanted to distill that into a more focused design and branding statement.
The inspiration was simple: a Panama hat. The Panama hat is the perfect example of function and style, and by tipping your hat, serves as a welcome gesture and embodies hospitality,” said Pons. That feeling of easy, usable chic drives the details of the design, from warm tones to a set of pegs in the wall of one room that forms both a focal point and a convenient spot to hang a hat or dry a swimsuit.
“Today’s travelers seek a refreshing experience led by simple pleasures, conspicuous leisure, dedication to sustainability, and an authentic, localized experience,” said van Wagenberg. “The evolution of Le Guanahani responds to this need for experiential travel. We want our guests to be transported into Le Guanahani’s colorful, lush, invigorating and serene setting, from the moment their eyes meet the website to the dinner on the beach with their feet in the sand.”
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