Global hospitality architecture and design firm WATG is celebrating its 80th year crafting bespoke design solutions across diverse contexts and cultures. From its Asia-Pacific (APAC) headquarters in Singapore, the firm is leveraging its eight-decade legacy to chart a new trajectory for the hospitality industry. This leadership is underscored by recognition for two of its projects at the Singapore Landscape Architecture Awards (SLAA) 2025 for projects in Vietnam.
WATG’s CEO, David Moore, is the firm’s first to be based in APAC. Based in Singapore for three decades, he helped pioneer the region for the firm in the 1990s alongside founder George ‘Pete’ Wimberly. He led WATG’s expansion into the Asian market and broadened its portfolio to encompass urban, lifestyle, and boutique projects, underscoring the firm’s commitment to a truly global perspective and strategic leadership presence in key growth regions.
Throughout its inception, WATG has consistently pushed the possibilities of design, integrating forward-thinking approaches that shape extraordinary spaces. From groundbreaking resorts to urban destinations to cultural landmarks and hospitality icons, the firm has played an integral role in crafting environments that inspire, endure, and elevate experiences.
WATG’s placemaking legacy is built on creating cultural landmarks rooted in the local vernacular from the authentic reimagining of Dangkou Ancient Town Hotel Wuxi (MGallery Collection) to the transformative JW Marriott Jeju, which redefined Korean luxury. This forward trajectory continues with the Regent Bali Canggu and the upcoming relaunch of Lagen El Nido in the Philippines.
“Our 80th anniversary is more than a milestone; it provides perspective that pivots us forward,” says David Moore. “It gives us 80 years of nuanced insight to allow us to innovate with precision while others guess.”
As it enters its ninth decade, WATG is capitalising on a seismic shift in the definition of luxury.
“Experiential luxury is the new currency. Our data confirms that in today’s market, the highest ROI and enduring value comes from moments that cannot be replicated. At WATG, we don’t just design spaces; we orchestrate the precise emotional connections that define the guest experience. This connection transforms a property from a simple investment into a lasting, meaningful asset,” Moore explains.
This philosophy is rooted in WATG’s ‘people-first’ approach which seeks to deepen the human connection with spaces. By prioritising long-term wellness and environmental responsibility, the firm’s commitment to giving back more than it takes from the land is most clearly expressed through its holistic, sustainably-minded landscape architecture. This regional-led design excellence is being celebrated locally. WATG was honoured with two Merit Awards at the SLAA 2025 gala held last Friday on 14 November 2025 for two projects in Vietnam: Hoiana Resort & Golf (Completed) and Izumi Waterfront City (Concept). This latest local recognition for Hoiana adds to its long list of global accolades, including being named ‘World’s Leading Fully Integrated Resort’ by the World Travel Awards (2024) and one of the ‘Best Integrated Resorts in Asia’ by Travel + Leisure.
Ronnie Tan, Creative Director of Landscape at WATG and Past President of Singapore Institute of Landscape Architects (SILA), highlighted the importance of this recognition.
“Our design philosophy is demonstrated through thoughtful landscape strategies. It is the thread that weaves through the entire guest experience and the ‘built-in’ wellness that guides how you feel,” said Tan.
“As a Singaporean, I am incredibly proud that the creative vision for these international projects came from our Singapore studio. We are not just following global trends, we are exporting Singapore’s unique design DNA, which intimately understands how to integrate nature, community, and hospitality together.”
From its Singapore studio, WATG is steering its creative vision for the region, designing the next generation of iconic, human-centric destinations across Asia and the world.
