Share to Facebook Share to Twitter Share to Linkedin Jean-Michel Gathy worked on the new One&Only One Za’abeel in Dubai (right). LoLL Willems (left), One&Only One Za’abeel Some of the world’s most stunning hotels, like Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River , Amanyara in Turks and Caicos, Aman New York and Nizuc Resort & Spa in Cancun, came from the mind of Jean-Michel Gathy. But the Belgium-born, Malaysia-based architect’s influence reaches even further — he is credited with setting hotel design trends that have become standard, such as over-the-top pools (like Marina Bay Sands ’ iconic 57th-floor outdoor pool), spa-like bathrooms (like The Setai, Miami Beach ) and overwater hammocks (like One&Only Reethi Rah in the Maldives).
Gathy and his firm Denniston have had a busy year debuting more beautiful hotels, including One&Only One Za’abeel , an H-shaped building in Dubai with sand-toned interiors, and Janu Tokyo , the first property from Aman’s more youthful but still stylish new sister brand. Aman Nai Lert Bangkok and Cheval Blanc Seychelles will come later in 2024, and Gathy has many more in the works. The visionary architect took some time out between projects to share where he gets inspiration, his favorite travel destinations and the most memorable hotel feature.
Peek inside the new Janu Tokyo. Janu Tokyo How would you describe your design aesthetic? I am someone who likes structure in design. I like geometry, and I like it when things make sense.