WATG, the global hospitality design firm behind iconic properties from the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan to the Ritz-Carlton Kyoto, has appointed Bhavya Kukrety as Managing Director for Asia Pacific. The move signals a strategic push to deepen the firm's integrated design approach across one of the world's fastest-growing travel markets.
Kukrety, who joins from Meinhardt Group where she served as Managing Director, brings over two decades of experience in large-scale urban development and sustainability. At Meinhardt, she led more than 20 major projects and unified multidisciplinary teams across urban planning and green infrastructure. Her expertise aligns with WATG's ambition to embed sustainability and resilience into every project, from luxury resorts to mixed-use destinations.
Strategic Focus on Sustainability and Digital Transformation
In her new role, Kukrety will oversee WATG's studios in Singapore, Shanghai, and Honolulu, working to enhance design intelligence and project delivery. She will prioritize human experience and cultural context, ensuring that each development responds to local needs while meeting global standards. This approach is increasingly critical as travel demand surges across Asia-Pacific, with airport investment in the region hitting $240 billion, as reported in Asia-Pacific and Middle East Airport Investment Hits $240B, PTE Asia Debuts in Singapore.
WATG CEO David Moore commented: "Bhavya brings a rare combination of strategic planning, sustainability, infrastructure and digital transformation expertise to WATG. Her leadership will be instrumental as we continue to deliver commercially resilient and culturally connected destinations."
Kukrety holds a bachelor's degree in architecture and a master's in urban and regional planning. She has been recognized as a Top LinkedIn Voice for her insights on urban infrastructure and sustainability. "I am excited to build on WATG's extraordinary legacy across Asia Pacific," she said. "Working with our clients and studios, we will create places that are sustainable and responsive to the future of travel and urban living."
Industry Context and Growth Opportunities
The appointment comes as Asia-Pacific travel rebounds strongly, with carriers like Cathay Pacific leading route expansions and cruise lines such as Swan Hellenic doubling their expedition itineraries in the region. WATG's portfolio already spans over 170 countries, and the firm is well-positioned to capitalize on the demand for luxury and experiential travel. Kukrety's background in digital transformation will also be key as travel-tech vendors and hoteliers increasingly adopt AI and smart building solutions.
For travel professionals—whether airline executives eyeing new routes like Cathay Pacific's Middle East expansion or hoteliers planning properties in emerging destinations—Kukrety's leadership signals a commitment to design that balances commercial viability with cultural authenticity. The firm's work on projects such as the Park Hyatt Busan, which targets business travelers with its Libeskind design and direct BEXCO access, exemplifies this trend.
WATG, founded in 1945, continues to shape the built environment for travel. With Kukrety at the helm in Asia Pacific, the firm aims to strengthen its integrated approach, ensuring that every project—from a boutique resort in Bali to a convention hotel in Singapore—delivers lasting value for owners, operators, and guests alike.
