In Late 2016, AS Design were commissioned to commence with the Concept Design for the refurbishment of the Tradewinds, Rydges resort along the Esplanade in Cairns as part of the Crystalbrook Collection range of hotels / resorts.

Along Abbott Street, the refurbishment portion of the building required to command street presence. This was done through mass planting the verge. All existing understorey planting around the perimeter of the building is to be substituted with a new range of tropical species.

The Minnie Street verge consisted of existing turf is to be replaced with mass low understorey planting complying with CPTED requirements under a dense canopy of overhead trees. This edge creates a dense / lush feel to the yoga deck and function room break-out space along with providing relief from the harsh western sun.

The intersection of Minnie Street and the Esplanade consists of a paved plaza space with seating opportunities under trees and palms overlooking the reflection ponds of the development with the Esplanade as a backdrop. This space provides the public with an opportunity to experience the reflection ponds from the outside along with providing an integrated space with the Esplanade and nearby Muddies Playground.

Inside the development, the elaborate resort pool with associated day bed areas, a beach edge and sun lounges located in shallow water has an island bar and stepped reflection ponds / infinity edge framing the development overlooking the Esplanade and beyond. Soft landscape features are scattered within the pool and restaurant areas consisting of palm trees in islands and planters, vertical trellis structures framing the relaxation pods and feature canopy trees over the restaurant facing the Esplanade.

Construction was completed in January 2019.