Refined Stillness: The Transformation of Banyan Tree Dubai

“BLINK’s transformation of the hotel speaks softly, but with complete assurance – grounded, refined and unmistakably Banyan Tree. It doesn’t try to impress; it simply belongs, as though it’s always been there, and has no intention of leaving.”
— Hospitality Net

Phase One: A Strategic Shift

Phase One, completed in just one month, offered a subtle yet strategic refresh of key public spaces by redefining the arrival experience, lobby lounge, and all-day dining area. Without altering the building’s structure, BLINK layered in natural materials, soft neutral tones, and sculptural elements to gently shift the energy of the spaces; infusing them with the tranquil elegance synonymous with Banyan Tree.

To meet the accelerated timeline, much of the detailing was developed offsite. Joinery and millwork arrived pre-assembled and were installed overnight, allowing the transformation to take place with minimal disruption to operations. Every intervention was considered and designed to reorient, rather than overwrite, the space.

“This required highly coordinated offsite fabrication for millwork and screening elements that could be installed overnight.”
— Clint Nagata, Travelling for Business

Toucha Lounge: Designed to Breathe

At the heart of the public areas, the Toucha Lounge introduces a moment of quiet retreat. Formerly the hotel’s lobby lounge, the space was renamed and reimagined to align with Banyan Tree’s ethos of calm and connection. A tea station was introduced, inviting guests to gather, pause, and serve themselves tea as part of a slower, more intentional arrival.

Drawing inspiration from Japanese tea houses, the design is light-filled and minimal, defined by clean lines and natural finishes. The formerly colourful glass ceiling was replaced with softly draped fabric forms; subtle gestures that recall the dunes of the surrounding landscape. Existing furniture was retained but reupholstered, further softening the aesthetic and reducing waste.

“The moment you step into the elegant lobby and are enveloped in the resort’s signature aromatherapy scents, you’ll feel a million miles from urban stressors. Designed to uplift the spirit and soothe the soul, Banyan Tree Dubai blends effortless convenience with secluded luxury.”
— Condé Nast Traveller

Its pared-back aesthetic continues the language of Phase One, reinforcing a sense of ease and rhythm in the guest journey.

Alizée: Riviera Ease

The reimagined all-day dining concept, Alizée, takes its cues from the relaxed charm of the French Riviera. A palette of terracotta, ochre, and sun-washed neutrals nods to coastal warmth, while rustic textures root the experience firmly in the region’s desert setting.

Rather than rebuild, we focused on targeted enhancements. The existing flooring and kitchen stations were retained but refined, re-clad in nature-inspired materials and set against a backdrop of sculptural detailing. On the terrace, bold parasols add a note of vibrancy, balancing refinement with casual comfort.

“We focused on high-impact yet minimally invasive interventions. We prioritised a thoughtful facelift, if you like—refinishing existing elements and introducing materials that embody the Banyan Tree DNA.”
— Clint Nagata, Travelling for Business

The result is a dining environment that feels evolved, cohesive, and quietly confident.

Phase Two: A Deeper Immersion

Phase Two focused on the spa, gym and salon; areas reimagined over the course of a year to reflect Banyan Tree’s 8 Wellbeing Pillars: connection, growth, groundedness, nourishment, rest, movement, practice, and mindfulness.

The design of the spa draws inspiration from the natural environment. Forms echo shifting sand dunes, materials are drawn from the palette of the Arabian oryx, and vertical gestures reference the Ghaf tree, a regional emblem of endurance. Light is used sparingly but effectively, sculpted to create rhythm and depth.

At the centre of the experience lies the Rainforest, a gender-separated hydrotherapy journey of aromatic steam, barefoot pathways, and rainwalks. A signature element of Banyan Tree spas, the Rainforest was reimagined here in close collaboration with the brand to reflect its desert setting. Designed as a progression through texture and temperature, it invites guests into a deeper state of sensory awareness while staying true to Banyan Tree’s core wellness philosophy.

“While many spas are typically dark and dimly lit, the new redesign of the Banyan Tree Spa transforms it into a bright, airy and modern space.”
— Hotelier Middle East

Collaboration and Continuity

The renovation unfolded as a close collaboration between BLINK, Banyan Tree, the operator and the owners. Across both phases, the priority was clear: elevate the experience without losing momentum. The strategy was one of continuity, preserving the function of the hotel while progressively reshaping its character.

Throughout, we approached the design with restraint. It was not about transformation for its own sake, but about finding alignment between brand, context, and guest experience.

“We share Asian roots, a commitment to sustainability and building purposeful experiences, and a reverence for everything beginning with a sense of place. It is simply a joy to see the vision of this partnership realised.”
— Paul Stuart Sykes Riquelme, General Manager, Banyan Tree Dubai

A Place Reimagined

Today, Banyan Tree Dubai feels both new and familiar. The energy has shifted, and the spaces move differently, what was once bold and performative is now grounded and quiet. Luxury, redefined, more nuanced, more contextual and aligned with Banyan Tree’s enduring commitment to sanctuary and stillness.