Sontaya, located at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort in Abu Dhabi, is a breathtaking Southeast Asian-inspired dining venue defined by its serene, over-water setting. The design features interconnected floating pavilions that seamlessly blend the indoor dining experience with the surrounding natural beauty of the Arabian Gulf and tranquil reflective pools. The goal was to create a sophisticated, immersive atmosphere that transitions effortlessly from a light, airy daytime space to a romantic haven at sunset.
The aesthetic uses a warm yet minimalist material palette inspired by the elemental forms of Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia, employing baked tiles, textured breeze blocks, and natural wood to deliver an ultra-luxury contemporary feel. This is complemented by subtle cultural nods, such as the vibrant yet restrained fabrics in green and teal upholstery, and ceiling wallcoverings that evoke the textures of rice fields. The design successfully creates an escapist, multi-sensory journey, establishing Sontaya as a sophisticated destination that provides a powerful sense of place.