HBA Manila designs new Henann Premier Coast Resort on Alona Beach

Hirsch Bedner and Associates (HBA) Manila brings its resort design expertise to the new Henann Premier Coast Resort. It’s the latest addition to the renowned Henann Resort Alona Beach in Bohol and underscores HBA's hospitality design prowess in supporting the strategic visions of their clients. HBA Manila introduces a more elevated, modern resort experience in Bohol for the Henann Resort Group.At the project’s helm was Norman Agleron, HBA partner and principal lead of HBA Manila. Tasked with delivering a design distinct from the main resort while still feeling connected, HBA Manila created a sophisticated tropical retreat. “We wanted a space that felt effortlessly luxurious but also grounded in the beauty of Bohol,” Agleron shares.The design takes inspiration from Alona Beach’s pristine setting and Bohol’s rich artisanal traditions. A calming palette drawn from the island’s soft sands and turquoise waters is paired with textures like woven rattan, wood, and locally sourced stone. “Subtle patterns inspired by Bohol’s weaving heritage appear throughout, adding authenticity without overwhelming the experience,” Agleron says.The design team embraced the challenge of differentiating the new property while aligning with the established Henann identity. “It was important to strike a balance—creating a fresh, modern expression while retaining the warmth and familiarity Henann guests expect,” says Agleron. The result is a resort wing that feels like a natural evolution of the brand.Designing for a beachfront setting required both aesthetic sensitivity and technical consideration. “Island logistics are always a factor—from sourcing to transportation,” Agleron explains. “But more critically, materials had to withstand the tropical climate: humid air, intense sun, and salt exposure.” Durable, low-maintenance finishes—such as engineered wood, corrosion-resistant metal, and weather-treated stone—ensure long-term performance without compromising the visual appeal.Sustainability also played a key role. Passive cooling strategies, including shaded walkways, open-air corridors, high ceilings, and cross-ventilation, reduce energy demands and reinforce the seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. “Natural light and airflow were integral to our concept,” says Agleron. “Expansive windows and carefully placed screens allow the architecture to breathe.”**media[15925]**One of the project’s standout features is this effortless indoor-outdoor transition. “The lobby is open and breezy, framing views that draw the eye to the pool and the sea beyond,” Agleron notes. Beach-facing guest rooms offer panoramic views of Panglao’s coast, elevating the sense of immersion in nature. “From the moment guests arrive, the design invites them to slow down and connect with their surroundings.”For the interiors, functionality was just as important as visual appeal. In public areas, stone floors and feature walls naturally cool the space while resisting wear and tear.In guest rooms, a combination of engineered wood and stone surfaces provides durability and comfort. “We designed with intention—every choice reflects a balance between form and function,” Agleron says.The thoughtful layering of materials—stone, wood, woven elements—creates visual depth and a strong sense of place. “It’s modern, but never cold. Elegant, but never out of touch with the environment,” he explains.Agleron also highlights the different approach required for designing beachfront resorts versus urban hotels. “In coastal settings, the goal is to embrace the outdoors. You work with the elements—sun, breeze, salt air—and materials must be resilient yet warm,” he says. “Urban hotels, in contrast, focus more on insulation, soundproofing, and maximizing space within tighter footprints. It’s about creating a private oasis in a fast-paced environment.”Ultimately, HBA’s design for Henann Premier Coast is more than an aesthetic achievement—it’s about enhancing the guest experience. “We’re proud of how the resort feels like a true escape,” Agleron says. “Through the interplay of texture, light, and open space, we’ve created a place that feels both elevated and deeply rooted in its tropical setting.”