Jean-Michel Gathy
Architect and principal designer, Denniston
A visionary architectural designer, dreaming up some of the most iconic luxury hotels and resorts
Jean-Michel Gathy’s prolific body of work has made him the most sought-after designer for ultra-luxury hotel groups worldwide, notably Aman, Four Seasons, Cheval Blanc and St Regis. Originally from Belgium but based in Malaysia, Gathy founded Denniston in 1983, revolutionising the hotel and hospitality sector. Renowned for pioneering trends like private plunge pools and spa-inspired bathrooms, his firm handles all aspects of hotel design—architecture, interiors and landscape—ensuring cohesive masterpieces.
From the early days of his firm, Gathy has been part of high-society circles, cultivating a clientele that includes prestigious brands like Cartier, Rolex and Ralph Lauren that engage him to design its glitzy boutiques, leading to his niche in ultra-luxury hotels. In the past two years, he has completed exquisite hotel projects, including Four Seasons Bangkok, Aman New York, Jumeirah Bali, Janu Tokyo, and One&Only One Za’abeel Dubai.
Awards
2006
Platinum Circle of Hospitality Design
Did You Know?
While still a child, Gathy was already developing a profound interest for faraway places. He had a fascination for maps, saving his milk money to buy them, and spending hours studying the mountains, cities and rivers of other countries every week.
