Nustar Casino & Resort | HKS Architects

The Challenge

To design a momentous resort and casino on Cebu Island in the Philippines that provides world-class service, accommodations and amenities to guests from around the world, all while providing a boost to the local economy.

The Design Solution

Evoking the rich history of Cebu’s port city, the design references naval wayfinding by serving as a landmark on the horizon. Due to its size and context, access and viewpoints were a key design driver for the project. Hotel towers are positioned to maximize the spectacular ocean views while maintaining the optimal orientation to mitigate solar heat gain. A bold rooftop restaurant crowns the five-star plus hotel tower and is designed with principles of fengshui. This upscale bar and restaurant at the development’s pinnacle provides views of the ocean and the Cebu skyline to guests, creating a new visual destination. Access needed to be organized and split based on the complexity of programming within the development, with six public vehicular drop-offs and eight pedestrian entrances on-grade. Also included are five service docks and two bus terminals in the basement.

The Design Impact

Situated on a stunning site with ocean frontage, this new masterplan will create a high-end integrated resort and waterfront destination point. The project is set for completion in 2020 and will create 5,000 jobs that will help improve the island’s tourism industry. As the island’s tallest development and prominently sited on the coast, this project serves as a focal point for the 300-hectare reclamation by South Road Properties on Cebu island.