A Touch of the Exotic

For his second home, the owner of The Library resort in Samui sets his mind on a vibrant, exotic look. A style that is totally different from his first residence.

/// Thailand ///

Story: Gobbi Chirawat /// Photos: Jirasak /// Assistant Photographers: Nattaphong /// Style: Praphaiwadee /// Designer: Amphon Jiramahaphokha

The pantry is striking. With its red wall and ceiling and multicolor drapes, the dark metal Arabian-style partition setting it off from the rest of the home.

The owner was already familiar with straightforward, minimalist interior decoration. So, he wanted to change to a more intense mood with mystical charm. Yong (Amphon Jiramahaphoka), a designer of the award-winning SODA group was called upon to complete this creative project.

Dark colors alternate with paler ones, giving dimension to the "living room." The light gray wall is adorned with framed pictures. The teakwood floor is polished to a lighter shade, contrasting with the dark ceiling, and opens out onto the balcony, with its set of wicker chairs. — Dark colors alternate with paler ones, giving dimension to the “living room.” The light gray wall is adorned with framed pictures. The teakwood floor is polished to a lighter shade, contrasting with the dark ceiling, and opens out onto the balcony, with its set of wicker chairs.

“I bought this room three or four years ago because of its prime location. But the new decoration was done last year. I removed the flooring, the ceiling and the walls. To avoid disturbing the neighbor, the work was limited to few hours per day. It took about eight months in total.” the owner explained.

  A perfect blend of colors and cultural influences gives the style a touch of the exotic. The entrance way, paved with black granite, makes the room feel cool and comfortable. The opposite walls features pictures and plates with vintage European designs. The kitchen has an elegant pantry designed for easy dining and food preparation.

The room is vibrant with a strong artistry at work. The TV sits on a mock up fireplace. LED lights give a romantic mood during the nighttime. — With a convertible sofa bed, this workspace also serves as a guest bedroom. Various types of decorative cloth highlight an Eastern flavor. Lighting under the sofa keeps things interesting.

The red wall and ceiling contrast strikingly with the wrought-metal Arab-style partitioning that sets the space off from the living room. There is a set of coffee table and black chairs imported from India. A sofa of bright navy blue is set on an Arabian rug, whose gray matches the wall color. The TV stands on a chic piece of shelving built into the wall to mimic a fireplace.

A built-in cabinet with a fold-down desk. Cabinets are draped with metal mesh and pleated cloth, striking the right balance between hard and soft materials.

Made for a romantic mood, the dark-colored ceiling is fitted with recessed LED lights that seem sparkling like stars at night. Next to the corner is one of the owner’s favorite places — the workroom that doubles as a guest accommodation. The walls are painted green, contrasting with purple curtains to bring out beautiful textures when sunlight enters. Arabian fabrics are seen in sofa covering, pillowslips, the carpet, and the silk cloth that covers the wall behind the built-in bookshelf. These intriguing touches are the signature of the designer.

A connecting walkway features black granite flooring with a gold trim. It is designed to match the mysterious-looking ceiling in black.

The bedroom features the most straightforward décor. Relaxing white walls pair with parquet flooring and a large window that allows plenty of natural light. Yong puts his signature details everywhere, especially the black Italian lacework that is drawn tight against the glass pane, separating the bed from the living room, while letting the light through.

A clear glass wall sits behind the headboard. Black-dyed lace allows light to shine through. The ceiling comes in black adorned with LED lights.

Excitements add spice to life, but make sure it’s to your liking. The same applies to this homeowner, who has ventured into the exotic territory. The vibrant style may be unfamiliar to many of us, but for him the enthusiasm is worth it.

A Touch of the Exotic