Architecture Moments™: Henann Resort Hotel Bohol
Known for its famous Chocolate Hills, Bohol Island in the Philippines is not only a travel gem but also an incredible paradise of historic, tropical, and seaside architecture.
Created by STORIES OF ERNE™ on January 7, 2023
Insatiable Craving for Beach Environments
People are naturally drawn to the environment - proof of humanity's innate design since the Earth's birth. And whether it's trekking on mountain slopes, strolling thru city parks, entertaining inside zoos, or lingering within aquatic habitats, the attraction is apparent. In fact, one sought-after destination is the beach!
I'm a certified fanatic of nature's bodies of water! Not sure why, but ever since I've set foot on our planet, I've always been hypnotized by the soothing sounds of smashing sea waves, the stimulating touch of white sand, the invigorating scenes of sunny blue skies, plus the non-invasive presence of sustainable buildings - all packaged into one setting. Where else can you capture this complete experience? Resort architecture!
Undeniably, the Philippines is blessed with all the natural elements I've just mentioned. Thus, a massive "Oh Yeah!" was my unhesitant answer to my close friend's attractive invitation. My travel partner who was searching for elite hotel landmarks near coastal shores. It was an ecstatic moment indeed!
And because it was an all-expense-paid adventure of a lifetime (thanks to my dear travel buddy), it was a tasty offer I could hardly refuse!
We were booked for the Henann Resort Hotel on Bohol Island, one of the poshest if not the most sophisticated piece of beach architecture on Panglao, an islet stationed on the south western tip of the province. Apart from our leisure itineraries, it was surely the perfect opportunity for me as an Architect to indulge in my passion for the built environment, particularly immersing in coastal landmarks like resort hotels.
Grand Welcome to Set the Mood
It was a hot summer's (pre-pandemic 2020) day when we finally arrived at the hotel's main entrance. And in an instant, I was immediately struck by the hotel's imposing front canopy supported by massive columns. At first glance, it appeared like a giant table, complete with top and legs. But I guess the intent there was to portray the visual illusion of royalty, suitable for their esteemed guests.
Main Entrance of Henann Resort Hotel Bohol (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
In my opinion, although there was a sense of a majestic welcome, the management allowed the parking of a colorful tricycle (or auto rickshaw in other countries) as shown on the photo, I interpreted it as an act of true humility, approachability, and pure hospitality, signifying the Filipino spirit of warmly accommodating visitors both local and foreign. My heartstrings were truly touched!
Logo Signage and Branding (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
The hotel's logo and brand was definitely prominent as it was exhibited at a humungous stone wall at the right side of the entrance doors. You won't miss it! And they have applied this branding strategy to various locations of the hotel complex from the small marks on furniture to larger signage in outdoor areas. They surely know how to project a lasting impression on you!
Main Check-in Counters and Reception Space (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
As we accessed the building's inner realm, we were greeted not only by friendly staff but also by remarkable interior design. The check-in counters and its surrounding spaces in general were sleek, minimalistic, and decently adorned with dramatic lighting. Apart from modern materials, the wooden finishes including the presence of real plants made the environment more inviting, extending a warm reception to guests.
Public Lobby and Chandeliers (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
If there were architectural details that caught my observant eyes, they were the exotic chandeliers! These overhead units had a marine-inspired theme and their exterior layers were fabricated out of "Capiz Shells" (Windowpane Oyster), commonly harvested in Philippine waters. These pearl-like membranes provided a translucent aesthetic thus complemented its vernacular origins. They perfectly matched the overall ambiance of the hotel's public areas.
Luxurious Comfort at its Finest
Without delay, we were accompanied right away to our assigned guest room. It was a tiresome journey, so we were looking forward to recharge first by power napping before proceeding with our planned activities for the day.
"Wow! What an elegant space!" I screamed at my companion. "Without a doubt, this is one of the best resort guest rooms I've seen!" I continued.
Compared to the public facilities, our guestroom was much more modern in terms of design character. Everything was well organized following anthropometric dimensions. It was clearly obvious that extreme care was practiced when conceptualizing its floor plan, FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment) layout, and installation of supporting utilities until actual execution of construction.
Hotel Guestroom Toilet and Bath (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
The toilet and bathroom (T&B) was satisfactorily spotless with a flowery smell of air fragrance. It had all the standard amenities for a guestroom T&B including a typical water closet, showers, and a bathtub. I've noticed that they haven't installed an extra bidet, and this additional fixture was probably offered in higher level and more expensive suites. What's interesting in this hygiene space was the provision of a clear glass wall and sliding curtains for privacy between the bathtub and bedroom, to spice up the guest viewing experience perhaps? Isn't that romantic?
Hotel Guestroom Interactive TV Wall (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Mini-Bar & Safety Deposit Box (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Hotel Guestroom Work Desk (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Heading over to the central bedroom section, it cleverly integrated all entertainment details in a single stretch starting with the mini-bar, security deposit box, TV wall with console table, and work desk with a framed decorative mirror. Neat, efficient, and functional indeed!
Hotel Guestroom Interactive TV Wall (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Hotel Guestroom Bed Area (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Hotel Guestroom Bed Area (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Next, the sleeping area consisted of queen-size and single beds. This was the only configuration available during our initial hotel booking. So we had no choice but to bear with it - not a big deal anyway. The bed mattresses, pillows, comforters, and blankets were extremely comfortable, and I could linger in their soft fabrics forever. With the addition of bed scarves for ornamental purposes, it made the entire sleeping activity more appealing.
Hotel Guestroom Interactive TV Wall (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Hotel Guestroom Bed Area (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
The beds' main headboard sporting a checkered pattern was an architectural experience in itself! Also serving as the wall backdrop, it definitely enhanced the guestroom's interior atmosphere as an accented centerpiece. Because it was equipped with concealed lighting features with dimming capabilities, it radiated a dramatic effect for the senses.
Hotel Guestroom Bed Area (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
To complement the 2 beds, a night table with desk lamp was provided together with the side support of a seating area consisting of 2 armchairs with a round table. As this was a standard guestroom, there was no dedicated lounge chair and ottoman due to lack of space. Again, this special unit was probably provided in the upper-level suites.
Hotel Guestroom Bed Area (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Main Headboard of Bed Area (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
To summarize, the entire bedroom set-up provided all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay. Everything was properly laid out, so we definitely had no regrets.
Rejuvenating Nature within Reach
On top of that, I was absolutely impressed with the hotel amenities situated right across the guestrooms. Large swimming pools, native huts, flowering shrubs, and spectacular gardens serving green trees and plants existed at the middle of the hotel complex, right in front of our very own eyes! We could likewise hear the chirping of birds, the gushing of the gentle breeze, the swaying of the leaves nearby plus faint yet beautiful sounds of children and adults playing in the pools. During those moments, healing therapy was free of charge!
Hotel Guestroom Balcony Overlooking Central Courtyard, Pools & Gardens (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Hotel Guestroom Balcony (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Since we were located on the elevated floors, we had a special balcony that gave us the pleasure of savoring that lush environment at close range. The centralized hotel courtyard with all the indicated amenities are one of the excellent design features I'd highly praise the Architect and hotel owners for their strategic decision!
Hotel Guestroom Balcony Overlooking Central Courtyard, Pools & Gardens (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Central Courtyard, Pools & Gardens (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Central Courtyard, Pools & Gardens (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
The direct presence of nature right across our hotel guestroom was undeniably one of the most incredible experiences we enjoyed that money can't buy!
Sumptuous Serving of Culinary Delights
It was time to replenish our hungry tummies - buffet style! We ventured into their famous hangout spot by the coast. Called the Sea Breeze Café, it was indeed a delightful treat for us not only for culinary pleasure but also for its architectural splendor.
Exterior Facade of Sea Breeze Cafe (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
From the outside, this was the unassuming appearance of this dining place. However, we were innocently clueless about the lavish interior atmosphere that was about to shatter our minds - waiting for us inside!
Interior Environment of Sea Breeze Cafe (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
"OMG! Does this restaurant take your breath away or what? Just look at those incredible pendant lamps! Aren't they absolutely gorgeous?" These were the initial words that came out of my mouth as soon as we entered its welcoming doors.
Dining Area of Sea Breeze Cafe (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Dining Area of Sea Breeze Cafe (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Dining Area of Sea Breeze Cafe (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Although my stomach was already grinding desperately to taste its mouthwatering portions, my glancing eyes were constantly glued at the elaborate details, decorations, as well as architectural materials and finishes harnessed by the interior space. The café was an absolute masterpiece of interior design: well-thought spatial organization for the kitchen, service nooks, dining tables and chairs, plus the main buffet counters.
Dining Area of Sea Breeze Cafe (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Buffet Serving Counter of Sea Breeze Cafe (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Buffet Serving Counter of Sea Breeze Cafe (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Auxiliary Buffet Serving Counter of Sea Breeze Cafe (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
We were fortunate that only a few hotel guests were present and availed of the unlimited meals during that occasion, so we took our time in savoring our delicious food. But most importantly, I continued my relentless pursuit of discovering more spectacular interior architecture up close and personal. It was absolutely one of the most interesting culinary havens I've encountered!
Outdoor Leisure for Total Relaxation
And last but not the least, we got to explore the hotel's outdoor facilities, specifically the ones fronting the beach. The prevailing weather was perfect for a stroll and swim, so we decided on taking a plunge at the beach waters and took refreshing dips at their swimming pools which were distanced near each other.
Hotel Beachfront Branding (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Both the beach front and swimming pools were well-maintained and periodically sanitized, cleaned, and inspected by hotel staff. Lifeguards were also on the alert keeping their watchful eyes open in case of unexpected emergencies.
Hotel Beachfront Swimming Pools (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Hotel Beachfront Swimming Pools (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Hotel Beachfront Swimming Pools (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Hotel Beachfront Pool Deck & Terrace (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
I was truly fascinated by the various geometrical forms of the swimming pools. They weren't boring spectacles because some were round, arched, curvilinear, while others were rectangular and straightforward. But the cool aspect about them was their flawless integration with each other - forming a creative interplay of different shapes and sizes for our visual entertainment.
Moreover, the natural environment wasn't taken for granted of course! Similar to the beautiful gardens at their central courtyard, abundant patches of lush foliage and green spaces were allocated for this hotel's beachfront property. Hence, hotel guests would simply be able to take advantage of the available free resources during their stay.
Hotel Beachfront Pool Deck & Terrace (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Hotel Beachfront Pool Deck & Terrace (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Hotel Beachfront Pool Deck & Terrace (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Hotel Beachfront Outdoor Lounge Chairs (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Concluding Insights
Needless to say, I had a tremendous blast at the Henann Resort Hotel in Bohol! In other words, I simply enjoyed the greatest of 2 worlds: fun adventures of travel and explorations of exquisite architecture. What more could I ask? Besides, as I've said in the beginning, I've always been a beach addict and there's absolutely nothing to lose if you genuinely connect with Mother Nature and the built environment!
Hotel Beachfront Outdoor Lounge Chairs (Photo: © 2023 storiesoferne)
Okay, it's about time for me to return to this hotel's white-sand beach to bask in the sun. I need to put some tan and finish the day off by playing with the sea waves. Care to join me?
#Hive, what are your thoughts about this fascinating feature of hospitality architecture? Would you feel at home in luxurious hotels like this one? Are you attentive to the surrounding designs of various built environments in travel accommodations?
IT IS IN THE ENJOYMENT OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT'S VALUABLE WEALTH OF HUMAN LIFE EXPERIENCES THAT ARCHITECTURE BECOMES TRULY SIGNIFICANT. storiesoferne
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ERNE is an Architect, Environmentalist, and Adventurer. On the Hive Blockchain, he is the Creator of the Architecture+Design Community. If you are passionate about architecture, the natural environment, and global travel, feel free to connect with him. He will gladly welcome you into his world.
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