Jean Michel Gathy is designing the upcoming One&Only Sanya on Haitang Bay in China, set to open in 2016.

The property will feature 192 guestrooms, suites and villas and 380m (1,247ft) of private coastline, set amid 11 hectares of coconut palms and ancient rosewood trees. Vast dramatic water gardens ripple throughout the resort, uniting the dining venues, spa villas, fitness centre and kids club.

Operated by Kerzner International, in partnership with China Gezhouba Group Real Estate, the One&Only Sanya will include five mansions, six villas with private pools, a Presidential suite with floor-to-ceiling windows and a baby grand piano, and a Manor House with large suites – all designed to provide an exclusive, residential feel.

Gathy, principal of Denniston International Architects, is working with Kerzner’s development and design team to evoke a sense of place, using materials that showcase the natural elements of Hainan with a contemporary feel.

Gathy was also part of the team that developed the One&Only Reethi Rah in The Maldives for Kerzner.

Meanwhile, Bensley Design Studios is working on the landscape architecture, highlighting the local flora and fauna found on Hainan and using water features throughout.

A One&Only Spa with private treatment villas, meandering inside a hidden “courtyard of tranquility” is planned, and will incorporate all elements of wellbeing, health and fitness, the company said. The spa will fuse ancient Eastern traditions and holistic practices with more Western spa therapies, and will include a hammam.