The celebrated Chiva-Som International Health Resort in Hua Hin, Thailand, has reopened after the most recent phase of a five-year renovation that has seen accommodation and facilities upgraded, with a new Qatar presence also announced.

Designed by Designrealization, the renovation masterplan was aimed at bringing a "modern and fresh take" to the resort, with teak, Thai silk, and bamboo complemented by a light colour palette of natural hues.

As part of the fourth and final stage, the Health & Wellness area has been made more spacious, light and airy, while the Spa & Physio treatment rooms, hydrotherapy suite and flotation chamber have all been updated with the new materials and colours.

The bathing pavilion has a new sunbed area under a glass roof and there's a new hydrotherapy pool, updated steam room equipment and larger changing areas.

The capacity of the resort restaurant, the Taste of Siam, has been increased to 100, with additional beachside seating and an extended roof to provide cover when it is raining. A new open kitchen has also been installed for a more interactive dining experience.

Previous stages of the renovation saw 23 Ocean Rooms updated in 2015 and, last year, an overhaul of other accommodation, the Fitness Centre and the Niranlada Medi-Spa.

The phased project started back in 2014 spanning five years and was completed this October.

The firm's international expansion is continuing, meanwhile, with its newly announced Zulal Wellness Resort in Qatar.

Designed to cater to guests of all ages, Zulal will feature a 120-guestroom family wellness resort, although there will also be an adjacent adults-only wellness resort with 60 suites and villas.

Landscaping will feature ponds and water features arranged around a series of serene shaded walled gardens – a narrative inspired by seabound travellers finding welcoming shelter in local villages.

The Zulal Wellness Resort is due to open in 2020.