Property in Phuket
THE first three rules of buying property are: location, location, and location. But in Phuket, this rule of thumb inevitably leads to endless debate about the benefits of the east coast versus the west coast. Arguments ensue about the wide open, monsoon-flushed seascapes of the west, compared to the dreamy, limestone karst islands of Phang Nga Bay.
But one development seems to offer the best of both worlds, with southern facing villas offering fabulous ocean views from an idyllic headland. The Tamarind Development, on the tip of Cape Panwa, does all these things, and will eventually feature a total of only seven villas on about seven rai of pristine forested headland.
The small private development features absolute water frontage at Ao Nam Bo, on the very tip of Cape Panwa. Because it is a dead end with no through traffic, it is a really quiet oasis, which is rarely found on Phuket these days. Peace and seclusion are guaranteed and Cape Panwa has retained most of its original quiet island charm, while still being within easy driving distance of the shopping, bars, restaurants and amenities of Phuket Town.
The development features amazing 280-degree views across the dreaming islands, from Koh Lan in the south, across Taphao Yai and Noi almost straight ahead, through to Koh Sirea in the north. You can even get a glimpse Koh Phi Phi off in the misty distance. Unlike the views commonly seen on Phuket which are often empty expanses of sea, here they are a hive of activity. Colourful fishing boats chug gently between the offshore islands, and the odd yacht will drop anchor to shelter in the protected waters in the lee of the islands.
At night, the view is dotted with lights from the ships moored offshore and Phuket town twinkling in the far distance. The original two villas on the site, which are now for sale, were designed in the style of Balinese pavilions by the principal of GFAB architects, Gary Fell. The villas fit closely into the contours of the site, at times cascading down the sloping hillside, or anchored into the hillside, almost becoming part of the land itself.
Mature trees and native vegetation have been preserved wherever possible and integrated into the architecture.
Vegetation and bodies of water have been used to bring natural cooling to the abundant outside living areas, and a natural breeze blows through the building, cooling the interiors.
On the roof, there are planters and reflecting ponds which provide passive ‘solar control’, reducing the need for air conditioning. Waste water, grey water and rainwater are collected in large underground tanks and used for irrigation as part of the environmentally-friendly design. The result is a timeless architectural adventure, rooted literally in the site and with an abundance of green credentials. A total of only seven villas will be built slowly on the site.
Each of the remaining villas will be built in consultation with the owner to match their individual specifications and design parameters. This is by no means a rush job. The villas will be designed by Gary Fell, the principal of GFAB architects, who has left his unique design signature on a wide range of resort and villa projects around south-east Asia, including the iconic Samujana in Koh Samui, and the new Foreign Correspondents’ Club in Siam Reap, Cambodia.
His creativity and environmental credentials are sure to make a major impact on the next phase of this impressive development.
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