WHERE MOUNTAIN CONTOURS MEET THE SEA, AUGUST DESIGN CONSULTANT DRAWS A VISION OF RESORT DESIGN INSPIRED BY PHUKET’S COASTAL BEAUTY
TEXT: PHARIN OPASSEREPADUNG
PHOTO: ADISORN RUANGSIRIDECHA
(For Thai, press here)
A cluster of soft-white buildings, their interlacing curved patterns set in harmonious contrast against Phuket’s vivid sea-blue horizon, forms Veranda Resort Phuket, Autograph Collection, a 159-unit resort perched on the hillsides of Ao Yon at Cape Panwa, in the island’s southern reaches. Surrounded by lush greenery and sweeping views of the Andaman Sea, the project is a collaboration among three design teams: August Design Consultant, The Office of Bangkok Architect (OBA), and Landscape Collaboration. Together, they have distilled the essence of the ‘Pearl of the Andaman,’ balancing the island’s natural beauty and urban character with effortless grace.
Overall landscape
Nature’s beauty served as the primary inspiration. The Office of Bangkok Architect (OBA) arranged the buildings in a cascading sequence that follows the hill’s shifting elevations. The resulting walls, façades, and rooflines carry undulating, overlapping curves that are reminiscent of topographic contour lines, a signature motif evident from the very first approach. In certain areas, the architects intentionally introduced asymmetry and subtle twists, bending forms in response to the site’s natural terrain.
material of lobby
While nature serves as the guiding form for the resort’s architecture, Phuket’s urban identity is no less significant as a source of inspiration. Subtle references to the island’s character are tucked into every corner of the guest rooms: natural tones such as light oak, sand, and textured woven fabrics evoke a sense of ease; wooden headboards are imprinted with patterns of Phuket’s handwoven textiles; batik-patterned cushions add a local accent. Similar gestures appear throughout the resort, ensuring that guests remain surrounded by reminders of Phuket’s unique spirit throughout their stay.
The design of the resort was primarily shaped first and foremost by the conditions of the site. Although spanning more than 20 rai, the land is divided into two sections by a public road. To navigate this challenge, the interior designers from August Design Consultant played with varying elevations, distributing four main zones across different levels. The arrival lobby was placed on the first and highest level of the resort, so that the very first sight greeting guests is an uninterrupted panorama of sky and brilliant blue sea. The building itself remains open, simple, and tranquil. Adding a distinctive touch, the ceiling above unfolds in layered contours, its curves inspired by topographic lines, evoking the beauty of caves, valleys, and sweeping 360-degree vistas.
The second level is home to Bar Botan, an open-air bar bathed in the glow of Phuket’s sunsets. Conceived as the resort’s central gathering space, it is designed in harmony with the surrounding landscape, opening generously to the sea breeze so guests can linger in the ocean air all day. On the third level lies The Parlour, the resort’s main restaurant and poolside bar. Its concept, wonders of nature and culture, blends the lush vitality of a tropical forest with Phuket’s distinctive Sino-Portuguese heritage. The story is told through flowing curves, soft oak and cream hues, and a striking wall mural that enhances the dining experience while framing sweeping sea views. A defining feature is that all three of these zones, Arrival Lobby, Bar Botan, and The Parlour, share unobstructed sunset panoramas, setting the resort apart from others in the area.
Finally, the Guestrooms & Suites zone comprises all 159 accommodations, positioned along the left and right flanks of the site. The façades of these buildings immediately draw attention, with each room featuring curved glass openings paired with circular partition walls between units. This design choice is a deliberate nod from the architects, evoking the spirit of 1970s modernist architecture that still lingers in parts of Phuket today.
Stepping into the guest rooms, one encounters interiors that reinterpret Phuket’s local character in a contemporary light. Brightly hued batik-patterned cushions, a half-circle rug suggestive of ocean waves, and capsule-shaped artworks that combine varied materials evoke the union of sea and sky. Functional elements are seamlessly integrated: built-in benches, a discreet minibar, and ample storage are all crafted from Marriott-standard materials that ensure both durability and refined beauty.
The resort’s standout feature is its two-story suites, inspired by seaside villas. These residences open to panoramic views through full-height glazing, linking the living area and private pool with an upper-level bedroom oriented toward the ocean. Bathrooms are designed as spa-like retreats, featuring switchable-glass technology that balances openness with privacy. Every material is selected for its suitability for the tropical climate, while batik and hand-dyed textiles by local artisans subtly express the island’s cultural roots.
Veranda Resort Phuket, Autograph Collection emerges as a resort that channels the beauty of nature, the distinctive character of Phuket, and the rhythms of local life in every dimension of its design, offering a stay that is both visually captivating and deeply meaningful.