Phuket’s Best Design-Based Luxury Resorts.

The natural beauty of Phuket, its easy access to island-hopping, and its rich culture already make it one of the top destinations, but these six luxury resorts are unique for their stunning architecture and interior design.

The first Aman resort, Amanpuri, was launched in 1988 and continues to be a model of discreet luxury. It is designed to correspond to the pavilion type of Thai architecture, with sweeping roofs, teakwork, and panoramic views of the Andaman Sea, and was designed by an architect, Edward Tuttle. In 2023, a redesign added a restaurant and retail pavilion by Kengo Kuma, new hydrotherapy facilities, updated villas, and refurbished pavilions (some with pools of their own).

Iniala Beach House is a place to stay offering bold interiors, art, drive, and celebrity visitors, located at Natai Beach. The UK architect Graham Lamb collaborated with 11 global designers to design very personal spaces that contained more than 40 works of art. Its villas include the theatrical Collector Villa, with ceramic-coated walls by the Campana brothers, sculptural timber furnishings by Joseph Walsh, and suites by designers such as Mark Brazier-Jones and Jaime Hayon.

Keemala, the villa above Kamala, offers a fully immersive storytelling experience across four villa styles inspired by imaginary ancient Phuket families. The Tree Pool Houses, Birds Nest Villa, Tent Pool Villa, and Clay Pool Cottages are houses, each with its own distinct way of demonstrating the life of a tribe. The resort was designed by Architect Space, and its interiors were by Pisud Design, which used natural materials, Thai craftsmanship, murals by Surachai Sripaiboon, and textiles from the Doi Tung Development Project.

The Surin is one of the pioneer luxury resorts in Phuket, located on Pansea Beach and offering direct access to the white sand and turquoise waters. In 1995, Edward Tuttle redesigned it to bring an element of modern refinement with Thai cultural aspects. In 2011, the building was also revitalized with cedar shingles, herringbone floors, cottage-style interiors, and an anthracite-covered pool, which lights up at night. The resort is built into the mountain and uses walking pathways and stairs rather than lifts to ensure guests are in touch with nature.

COMO Point Yamu is the first hotel designed by Italian designer Paola Navone and a new interpretation of Thai resort design. Located on the heights of Phang Nga Bay, it has a turquoise-and-white color scheme with references to the sea and contrasts with vivid strokes of orange, reminiscent of monks’ robes. Navone displays Thai artisanship by ceramic tiles, rattan lamp fixtures in the shape of lobster traps, and handmade Chiang Mai dinnerware.

Naka Island is a single structure on Naka Yai Island in Phang Nga Bay, reached by speedboat from Ao Por Pier. The 90 villas are characterized by thatched roofs, curved and natural materials, and bathrooms with access to a garden via stepping-stones. Its initial design was by Habita Architects, but it was renovated by Begray Architects, featuring new luxurious rooms, a refurbished gym, and a beachfront restaurant. The Royal Horizon villa complex has 4 bedrooms, large decks, and a personal pool perfect for a family or wedding.