WATG Pioneers Branded Residential Lifestyle in Asia Pacific
Leveraging its expertise in luxury hospitality and residential projects since 1945, WATG sets new standards for branded residences in mature and emerging markets of Asia Pacific
WATG has released its 2022 Brand Residence Atlas, a white paper that profiles the geographical trends and shifts in this growing sector. Founded in 1945, the multi-disciplinary firm has been at the forefront of branded residential design since the concept caught on nearly a hundred years ago. Shaping the narrative for over 75 years with iconic projects globally, WATG has built a strong branded residence legacy in Asia Pacific, with the likes of the country’s first project in this sector, the St. Regis Residences, Singapore, which opened in 2008, as well as the The Residences at W Singapore – Sentosa Cove, and the upcoming Intercontinental Halong Bay Resort and Residences in Vietnam.
Following its inaugural Branded Residence Atlas published in 2020, WATG has tracked more than 700 hospitality-branded residential projects, accounting for approximately 100,000 completed and planned residences. Over the past two years, the geography of branded residence development has not only increased but shifted its centre of gravity towards Asia, with Vietnam and Thailand leading the pipeline of projects under development.
Now more than ever, high net worth individuals in Asia are seeking private, upscale accommodation, whether as a primary residence or vacation home, with all the perks of hotel living. WATG’s expertise in both luxury hospitality and residential spaces offer them the unique insight into two nuanced segments to ensure optimisation between both functions.
The Residences at W Singapore – Sentosa Cove, offers a fully integrated experience alongside an idyllic marina lifestyle, only minutes’ drive from the main island. The sense of community that residents enjoy, complemented by upscale entertainment and lifestyle choices, makes The Residences at W Singapore – Sentosa Cove one of the most sought-after addresses in the island-state.
“Following the pandemic, more people recognise the need for homes to be a personal sanctuary, a place to live, work and play. WATG’s deep expertise in luxury hospitality and premium residential projects puts us in good stead to cater to this rapidly segment, paving the way for our teams to design aspirational lifestyle in Asia’s most alluring destinations,” said Guy Cooke, WATG’s Director of Strategy, Asia Pacific.
Southeast Asia, particularly Vietnam, has been the epicentre of development in recent years, due to robust tourism and pent-up demand. From Hanoi to Ha Long Bay in the north to Phu Quoc and Ho Chi Minh City in the south, branded residences are being developed as a core segment in new tourist destinations.
“Residences are another integral element of an increasingly broad and multi-faceted lifestyle offering by luxury hospitality brands,” said Guy Cooke, WATG’s Director of Strategy, Asia Pacific.
The upcoming Intercontinental Halong Bay Resort and Residences will be part of a larger 248-hectare mixed-used development that will showcase the perfect harmony between contemporary and traditional, setting a fresh new standard in experiential heritage design that the brand is so renowned for. Drawing inspiration from the beachfront location and the spectacular limestone pillars that line the horizon, WATG based its master planning and architectural design on five principles – maximum efficiency, drawing on the unique characteristics of the locale, maximising the majestic vistas, creating experiential moments to remember and exclusivity. The project is currently under construction.