A reclaimed island within Sanya, a city on the southern end of China's Hainan Island, is the subject of a sweeping mixed-use scheme that will boost the area's already plentiful tourism scene. International architecture firm Benoy has taken on the task of formulating the master plan for the second phase of a wider vision developed by China International Travel Service (CITS), for which the latest designs have now been released. The Sanya Eyot development will be located on the reclaimed Hexin Island within the new resort area of Haitang Bay, which has been inundated with lavish luxury hotels and natural attractions.

An aerial overview of the master plan, image courtesy of Benoy

Linked to the built first phase by a new pedestrian bridge, the 32,000-square-metre retail-dominated destination imagines a collective of distinctive and small-scale buildings that comprise a network of indoor and outdoor spaces that will play host to an array of entertainment and retail activities. For enhanced connectivity, a series of elevated walkways and bridges will provide easy movement throughout the campus.

A pedestrian bridge will link the development to the existing first phase, image courtesy of Benoy

"We are incredibly excited to be working on this high-profile scheme with CITS," said Ferdinand Cheung, Director at Benoy. "Our vision is to bring a completely new experience and break the mould for retail-led tourism developments in Haitang Bay. The scheme will provide visitors with a concept not yet seen before in this area."

A group of porous canopies reflect the character of the seaside environment, image courtesy of Benoy

The latest design unveils a system of canopy structures whose form and colour have been inspired by their seaside environment. Resembling sea shells, the structures have been designed in accordance with solar paths and prevailing wind studies to optimize natural ventilation across the site, with the added benefit of maintaining key sightlines across the island.

Sanya Eyot is set to become a tourist magnet, image courtesy of Benoy

"The canopy designs have not only allowed us to fulfil the brief for the project environmentally, helping to encourage air circulation and provide sun shading within this known humid and hot climate, but they also bring a real identity to the scheme," said Janet Chan, Senior Associate Director at Benoy. "Their form and colour connect back to the coastal and resort quality of the site and they gave us the platform to showcase our conceptual innovation within the design."

Sanya Eyot's retail and entertainment facilities, image courtesy of Benoy

The north end of the development will be infused with a covered market area replete with fresh local seafood, stalls for imported goods, and an al fresco dining area. A large aquarium with a reflective pool has also been laid out under the plans. Construction on the multi-pronged development is scheduled to begin later this year, bringing Benoy's carefully crafted vision to life.

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