The Residences at InterContinental Phuket Resort Introduce a New Design Approach
Perched on the hills of Kamala, The Residences at InterContinental Phuket Resort showcase a new architectural vision for modern Asian living—one that offers a serene, lived-in experience of paradise. Known as “The Edge of Heaven,” these residences complete the resort’s trilogy inspired by the ancient Tribhumikatha cosmology: the hotel represents the Heart of Heaven, the Emerald Pool and gardens symbolize the Garden of Heaven, and the residences embody the Far East Paradise—where everyday life is intentionally elevated.
Developed by Proud Real Estate Public Company Limited and designed by Habita Architects, the project extends the resort’s narrative while shaping a residential environment with its own emotional rhythm. Habita Architects, known for their context-driven approach, were tasked with creating not just an extension, but a long-term living environment that feels distinctive and rooted in place.
A Transition from Resort Mood to Residential Calm
A defining gesture of the masterplan is the moment residents shift from the resort environment to their private realm — a subtle transition that signals the beginning of home. “The arrival home was imagined as a gentle passage from the ethereal into the familiar,” the design team notes. This approach carries through the development: softened building forms, warm-toned materials, and circulation spaces arranged for stillness. The architecture encourages residents to move from exploration to belonging.
Interpreting Paradise for Everyday Living
While the resort draws on narratives of Thainess, the residences reinterpret paradise, emphasising balance and quiet elegance. The architecture references Phuket’s Sino-European and Peranakan heritage through recessed corners, ventilated façades, crafted timber tones, and textural detailing. Elements such as Peranakan arches, patterned screens, rhythmic colonnades and stepped corners echo local history while maintaining a clean, contemporary expression.
Inside, PIA Interior extends the story “where the rivers of heaven converge,” combining ideas from the mythical Himmapan Forest with Peranakan artistry and Sino-European influences. Colour palettes draw on traditional Thai paintings and historic maps of Anodard Pond, creating interiors that feel grounded and calm. Ample natural light and cross-ventilation support a daily rhythm shaped by the site’s landscape and climate.
Design Shaped by Craft, Climate and Culture
PLA Landscape anchors the development with a garden concept positioned at the edge of the mythical Himmapan Forest — a threshold between heaven and earth. The landscape features sacred plants of the three worlds (Pañcaputtha) alongside local flora, forming a symbolic environment connected to the resort’s cosmology.
The outdoor areas are organised into scenes inspired by four mythical guardians — Kraison Siha, the Winged Steed, Nok Karawik and Matcha Whan — each informing patterns of movement, shade and planting. Materials and detailing respond to Phuket’s tropical climate: perforated screens for airflow, recessed corners for softened light, and finishes selected to age with character.
In contrast to more visually assertive coastal architecture, the residences adopt a restrained presence. Natural tones, greenery-softened façades and proportionate forms allow the buildings to blend into Kamala’s hillside landscape.
A Garden Core Anchored in Stillness
At the centre of the development lies the Paradise Garden Court, framed by mountains and sea. This garden forms both the physical and emotional core of the residences — a place for pause, gathering and connection. The Sala Pavilion stands at its heart, expressing the project’s blend of nature, heritage and contemporary design.
The Residences at InterContinental Phuket Resort bring together three design studios: Habita Architects for architecture, PLA Landscape for landscape, and PIA Interior for interiors. Their shared aim is a residential sanctuary where architecture, landscape, and interiors work in harmony to create a calm, cohesive living environment.
A Contemporary, Low-Density Residential Retreat
Set across 3-1-40 rai in Kamala, the development includes two seven-storey residential buildings and a three-storey facilities pavilion, offering 111 units ranging from one-bedroom suites (59–76 sq.m.) to penthouses of up to 425 sq.m. Options include corner residences, two-bedroom-plus layouts and private-pool homes. The development caters to residents seeking a lifestyle defined by ease, connection to nature and thoughtful design.
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