InterContinental Danang designer Bill Bensley evokes ‘poetry of place’ in work

The Harvard-trained landscape architect brings storytelling and conservation together to create iconic hospitality spaces.

Creative Vision and Career

Bill Bensley, a Bangkok-based American landscape architect and interior designer, views resorts as stories waiting to be discovered with surprises around every corner. Known as the “resort king,” he has shaped over 200 hotels, resorts, and private residences across 30 countries with theatrical yet thoughtful designs. At 66 years old, his work melds creativity with environmental sensitivity.

InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort Experience

During a three-day visit to the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort in Vietnam in December 2024, I noticed a striking black-and-white theme in latticework, floors, and ceilings, accented by bright pops of lemon yellow and tangerine orange.

Design & Environmental Harmony

Located on the steep slopes of the Son Tra Nature Reserve in Danang, the extensive resort of rooms and villas exemplifies sustainable hospitality design. Its architecture respects the land’s natural contours to minimize disturbance to the native flora and fauna, preserving the area's rare coastal rainforest.

“A resort should feel like an unfolding story, with surprises around every corner.” – Bill Bensley

Author's summary: Bill Bensley's design philosophy at InterContinental Danang captures a harmonious blend of theatrical storytelling and environmental sustainability, creating unique hospitality experiences.

The Straits Times — 2025-11-07