SOOK Architects Completed A Family Resort with Siamese Vernacular Architecture

In the middle of the jungle of Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand, there is an interesting resort worth visiting to relieves stress from city life. Hill Lodge was originally a private resort owned by the family of Chalaluck Bunnag. Chalaluck Bunnag's family was often used for private family parties. However, due to the pleasant atmosphere, the family's guests fell in love with it and wanted to come back to spend time with the family. Eventually, this residence was transformed into a resort.

Hill Lodge by SOOK Architects (cr: Spaceshift Studio)

The resort originally only had 2-3 bungalows with a hut. The owner worked with SOOK Architects to redesign it to expand the resort and add some main areas such as the lobby, office, and restaurant. SOOK Architects designed four suites, bungalows, one family bungalow with three bedrooms, and a simple housing complex of 2-3 houses for employees and their families.

Hill Lodge by SOOK Architects (cr: Spaceshift Studio)

Hill Lodge by SOOK Architects (cr: Spaceshift Studio)

Hill Lodge by SOOK Architects (cr: Spaceshift Studio)

The renovation process was quite challenging as SOOK Architects had to conduct a survey to determine the exact position of the building. This is because the resort is located in steep hilly vegetation far from the city. In addition, the architects also did not want to change too much of the existing green areas and trees, such as Longan trees and Wild Himalayan Cherries: Prunus to create a multi-viewpoint design. 

Hill Lodge by SOOK Architects (cr: Spaceshift Studio)

Hill Lodge by SOOK Architects (cr: Spaceshift Studio)

SOOK Architects selected the building's main structure, columns, and beams from small steels, allowing the long and cantilevered structure to blend in with other raw materials. The steel structure was chosen because it could be brought to the site in one or two pieces, making it easier to accommodate workers, thus reducing the construction time.

Hill Lodge by SOOK Architects (photo by Spaceshift Studio)

Not wanting to lose the northern Siamese vernacular architectural designs of the mountain tribes, SOOK Architecture simply rebuilt the old hut in the same place but with a larger space to preserve the architectural elements. The “hut” is used as a lobby to welcome guests, allowing guests to enjoy the expansive views of nature upon arrival at the resort.

Hill Lodge by SOOK Architects (cr: Spaceshift Studio)

Despite the language barrier between the architects and the local carpenters who speak tribal dialects, the architects and contractors chose to work with local woodworkers to process timber from the local area. Besides being inspired by Glenn Murcutt's working techniques in remote locations, the collaboration was done to retain the design elements of northern Siamese vernacular architecture. 

Hill Lodge by SOOK Architects (photo by Spaceshift Studio)

The resort's visuals, which leave a traditional impression with the distinctive style of mountain tribes, will take residents on an excursion from the bustling modern city life. Uniquely, traditional amenities coexist alongside modern amenities such as simply styled furniture, stone countertops in the bathrooms, and wooden floor tables that give a welcoming and warm feel. 

Hill Lodge by SOOK Architects (photo by Spaceshift Studio)

In the morning, residents will enjoy the warm natural light from the large windows in their rooms. Exotic animals such as elephants, can be found in the green areas of the resort. Residents need not worry as the local staff will help the elephants to stay in the area so that they will not disturb the visitors. In the afternoon, residents can enjoy culinary delights with local recipes surrounded by green forest scenery enveloped by the warm glow of the setting sun.

Hill Lodge by SOOK Architects (photo by Spaceshift Studio)

Hill Lodge by SOOK Architects (photo by Spaceshift Studio)

Hill Lodge is a unique and attractive residence even though it is in the middle of the forest. A calm, friendly, and warm ambiance will dominate this residence to pamper those who want to spend the night to take a break from the bustle of the city. The vegetation of green hills and exotic animals will be a visual treat for visitors' eyes.