Designing a Coastal Retreat

On the secluded island of Koh Yao Noi, located near Phuket, I had the privilege of designing a three-story private villa on a gently sloping beachfront plot. The project was both an exciting and complex challenge, with the client’s expectations being both high and intricate. The upper floor was designated as the private living area, featuring two bedrooms, a bathroom, a spacious kitchen, dining room, and a large living area that seamlessly opens onto the terrace, all with unobstructed views of the sea. It was imperative that every room had direct access to the terrace and the stunning ocean panorama.

Multi-Level Living and Amenities

On the middle level, we placed a long swimming pool, along with an open-plan living space, kitchen, and dining area. This level also houses a garage, secondary kitchen, storage rooms, and a hobby workshop. The lower floor accommodates two apartments intended for rental, with a second pool situated on this garden level, into which the upper pool cascades via a waterfall. Below the waterfall, a third BBQ kitchen and dining space for guests was thoughtfully integrated. At the rear, we positioned areas for engineering equipment and additional storage. Two staircases flank the central pool, allowing seamless movement between the levels.

Innovative Design Solutions

The scale and intricacy of the design posed challenges in terms of adhering to local building regulations, which limit the size of buildings near the beach. To resolve this, I implemented an innovative solution: we designed four separate structures connected by terraces, with the two pools centrally positioned between them. This approach allowed us to meet regulatory requirements while creating a cohesive and functional layout. The roof was divided into two parts and linked by a glass roof over the stairwell, contributing to a visually appealing design.

Aesthetic and Approval Success

I am pleased to share that this solution resulted in a harmonious and unified aesthetic, with distinctive steel beam motifs accentuating the overall design. The project proceeded smoothly, and I am happy to report that we received all necessary approvals without issue, leaving us with a very content and delighted villa owner.

Embracing Tropical Elegance

The interior design reflects the client’s desire for a tropical beach ambiance, imbued with a youthful and fresh energy. A palette of blues and grays provides contrast and highlights the structural elements, while all materials were carefully selected for their resilience to the island’s tropical conditions, such as saltwater, humidity, and intense sunlight. Teak wood was paired with aluminum elements for added durability. Inside, we maximized the height of the roof where possible and introduced suspended ceilings only where air conditioning was required. The concealed lighting above enhances the sense of spaciousness.

Timeless Finishes

In terms of finishes, we adhered to the principle that simplicity often yields the most beauty. Light gray tones were used for all floors and walls, with only the vibrant blue octagonal mosaic adding a lively contrast, bringing a playful yet elegant touch to the space.

The end wall of the upper pool features an inclined transparent acrylic panel, allowing water to flow seamlessly into the lower pool—one of the signature design elements.