Location: SIHANOUKVILLE, Cambodia.

Architect: STUDIOGOTO.

The Alila Villas Koh Russey resort in Cambodia draws inspiration from the country’s traditional Krama fabric, which features a check pattern with varying cross running lines. The lattice of lines is used throughout the resort’s design, from the macro scale of master-planning to the micro levels of interior details. The Main Arrival pavilion roof features varying intervals of fins in local timber, while the restaurant boasts a bespoke wall made from discarded wood cuttings gathered from local timber mills. The villas incorporate locally available stones and other building materials, with bedhead details inspired by the Krama’s cross running lines. The resort’s architecture is designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment, with lush landscaping used for spatial definition instead of physical walls.

The result is a harmonious interior experience that merges the sublime nature of the surroundings with the Khmer culture and its natural materials. The Krama fabric is a symbolic entity in Cambodia, and the resort’s design embraces its characteristics. The lattice of lines is used throughout the resort’s design, from the Main Arrival pavilion roof to the micro levels of interior details. The Main Arrival pavilion roof features varying intervals of fins in local timber, while the restaurant boasts a bespoke wall made from discarded wood cuttings gathered from local timber mills. The villas incorporate locally available stones and other building materials, with bedhead details inspired by the Krama’s cross running lines. The resort’s architecture is designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment, with lush landscaping used for spatial definition instead of physical walls. The result is a harmonious interior experience that merges the sublime nature of the surroundings with the Khmer culture and its natural materials.

Photo credit: ROBERT KLEINER PHOTOGRAPHY.