Aqua Boracay by YOO, a five-star 168-bedroom hotel, is set to launch in the last quarter of 2015 in the Philippines. The property is designed by YOO Studio, an international development and branding company led by property entrepreneur John Hitchcox and designer Philippe Starck.

Set on 16,000sq m (17,222sq ft) of lush tropical gardens, the beachfront resort on the island of Boracay is the first YOO-branded resort residence in the Pacific, according to CEO of YOO Hotels & Resorts, Marco Nijhof. YOO Hotels & Resorts is the operating arm of YOO and the facilities' interiors are designed by YOO Studio. The other architecture firm working on the project is Buensalido Architects – which came up with the design for the exteriors.

“Aqua Boracay by YOO embodies our philosophy that design enhances the wellbeing and comfort of guests and is not an end in itself,” said Mark Davidson, design director at YOO Studio. “Our concept is borne from the unique energy and natural beauty of the island, with a palette of warm, natural and clean finishes that perfectly complement the simple, tranquil and laid-back Boracay experience.”

The resort’s 300sq m (3,229sq ft) spa will be complemented by a health club, yoga studio, a lagoon pool facing the sea, another rectangular pool, function rooms and a wedding pavilion.

Anticipated to launch at the same time as a local airport that is undergoing renovations, the property will enjoy enhanced accessibility.

Additional facilities will include two restaurants and access to Bulabog beach.

Activities on offer in the region include kitesurfing, boat trips to secluded beaches, island hopping and visits to local fish markets.

YOO Hotels & Resorts operates YOO and YOO2-branded hotels – the latter being for international city-centre developments.

Openings across the two brands are slated for Brazil, Bali, China, Costa Rica, Indonesia, Istanbul, Thailand, Tuscany and the Cotswolds in the UK.