Keemala, the new luxury resort in Phuket, opened to rave reviews that used terms like “Enchanting”, “Magical” and “Romantic.” But it’s the unusual architecture – which celebrates the culture of four fictional clans – of wild villas, each with their own pool, that has me spellbound.
Keemala All Pool Villa Resort
THE STORY OF KEEMALA
The resort has presented itself as inspired by The Story of Keemala, a fictional story of ancient travelers from diverse cultures who journeyed seaports by way of trade routes as nomadic tribes or clans.
Eventually, shipwrecked and destitute, they found a safe haven on an isle boasting fertile land, with plentiful coconuts, exotic fruits and fish, this isle is now known as Phuket Island.
Keemala’s architecture, design, spa treatments, cuisine inspiration and ethos is inspired by these four fictitious clans of Phutek Tribes: the ‘Pa-ta-Pea’ (Earth), the’Khon-Jorn’ (Wanderers), the ‘We-Ha’ (Sky), and the ‘Rung-Nok’ (Nest) people.
The Keemala concept celebrates the culture of these tribes and harnesses their methods of living, infusing them into the overall guest experiences through unique architecture, wholesome cuisine, a holistic spa and the environment.
An enchanting wonderland set in the woodlands of Kamala, Keemala is nestled well away from the crowds and overlooks the Andaman Sea.
The resort and spa, consisting of 38 private villas, each with their own private pool, also has a main pool for their guests.
THE ARCHITECTURE AND FOUR TYPES OF VILLAS
The 38 villas were designed by Thailand-based Architect Space with interior design by Pisit Aongskultong of Pisud Design Company (whose website no longer exists), supporting local companies and laborers.
Although based on tribal designs, the villas have contemporary touches like iPod docks and fluffy bathrobes, fine textiles and lavish features like outdoor bathtubs and rainforest showers. Each villa has a private pool and is designed for guests to completely unwind.
The Clay Pool Cottages (sixteen available)
The ‘PA-TA-PEA’ CLAN (Earth Clan) believed that being connected to the earth would bring them health benefits. Not only would they build their homes on the ground, but they would also incorporate earth into their walls, roofs, and furniture. Even the beds they slept on were made from soil and clay. This clan consisted of hard working farmers, fishermen, gardeners, carpenters, blacksmiths, and miners.
The Tent Pool Villas (seven available)
The ‘KHON-JORN CLAN’ (WANDERERS) were adventurous people consisting of foragers, herders, performers, traders, and explorers, who spent their time trading goods with other tribes they’d encounter on their journeys. Due to their nomadic ways they’d prefer to construct semi-permanent homes, so they could easily move on, hence we celebrate them with our design.
The Tree Pool Houses (seven available)
The ‘WE-HA’ CLAN’ (SKY ) was a group who built their homes elevated from the ground and in the tree tops in order to obtain better creativity and liberty. The clan included the talents of creators, architects, inventors, healers and geologists. The villas give the impression that they are suspended from the trees with some furniture also using suspension as a feature.
The Bird’s Nest Pool Villas (eight available)
THE RUNG-NOK CLAN (NEST) members enjoyed an opulent lifestyle. Their craving for exclusivity resulted in the woven tangle of a birds nest design. This clan was thought to be more superior intellectually and comprised of artists, musicians, poets, philosophers and astrologers. They would bathe under the moonlight believing that their souls would be replenished, thus the inspiration for these villas.
The luxury resort is focused on wellness and quality of life. For fun seekers the resort is close enough to Kamala Beach and the liveliness of Patong Beach and all the dynamic action that Phuket has to offer, yet far enough removed for those who want sanctuary, to step back and take time to enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
MALA HOLISTIC SPA
Mala Spa at Keemala offers sensory voyages that incorporate sight, scent, sound and touch. There are eight treatment rooms and a diverse menu of holistic and pampering treatments using ancient and modern techniques along with organic products to help relax and rejuvenate. Mala Spa uses organic products by VOYA, Siam Botanicals and Spa Ritual. Learn more about their holistic retreats here
CUISINE
There are four dining venues to enjoy cuisine outside of the villa, the restaurant, by the pool, and our comfy lounge area perfect for afternoon tea and a wine cellar ideal for intimate dinners.
They have extra rooftop space that seats 80 guests for dinner. They also offer ‘destination dining’ around the resort as well as in-villa dining, barbeques and creative picnic baskets.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or simply some ‘me time’, Keemala offers you a magical and memorable stay in Phuket.
Keemala
Kathu District, Phuket, Thailand
Book your stay at Keemala here
photos courtesy of Keemala, Spunktitud3 on flickr and hotelpromobook