i resort

Demand for mud bathing has grown, and the resort answers it with traditional building forms and fresh ideas in space and structure. It sits on a small hill across the river from the city centre, quiet enough for an unhurried spa visit. The first stage develops the hot springs on part of a much larger site.

Studying local life, the design team found that most residents are farmers whose fields keep them busy for only two or three months a year. The rest of the time they work as stone carvers, woodworkers or at whatever pays. Hiring them brought work to the community and drew on what they know about building on this ground.

Timber, rock and local coconut leaf give the buildings a warm, rooted character. Lotus ponds, gourd trellises and flower gardens soften the strong tropical sun.

Courtyards and mortise and tenon joints run through the whole resort. The courtyard, long shaped by the culture and climate of the region, works here as both spatial generator and climate moderator. Spaces are organised loosely so they can take on different uses and views, and activities unfold in quiet corners. The courtyards also let in sun and air in a way that suits the climate.