Best Design Hotels in Khao Lak

36 cube-shaped villas give a modernist edge to this palm-lined beachfront in Phangnga province. Designed by VaSLab Architecture, the all-pool-villa hotel was commissioned in 2008, with unusual deviated walls, tilted roofs, green walls, rainwater recycling and custom-made furniture by Anon Pairot Design Studio. Casa de la Flora offers round the clock butler service, spa, fitness suite, direct beach access, minbars, mountain bike hire and watersports. Charming afternoon tea is served daily, with dinner taken at the Thai waterside eatery La Aranya -and the cocktails here are epic with variations as imaginative as the resort’s architecture. This chic design property is well suited to discerning couples and adult visitors.

Set within 10 acres of tropical gardens that open onto a secluded stretch of white-sand beach, The Sarojin in Khao Lak offers a serene, highly personalised escape that captures the essence of barefoot luxury. Boutique in scale, with just 56 residences housed in low-rise residential style buildings discreetly dotted around its lush gardens. Dining is central to the experience, with two main restaurants and imaginative private dining options, including candlelit meals beside a waterfall and castaway-style dinners on a secluded sandbank. Guests can shape their stay around their own rhythm, whether that’s sunrise yoga, unwinding in the open-air spa, or beginning the day with a champagne breakfast served until 6pm.

Set between a freshwater tropical lagoon and a private beach, this luxury hotel enjoys the best of both worlds. 69 rooms, suites and villas nestled among coconut groves, offer lovely views of the Andaman coast. The design is inspired by the intricate architecture of ancient Asian civilisations, in a neutral palette with splashes of vibrant colour. Swim in the marble saltwater infinity pool as you look out over the ocean, head to the incredible spa, try your hand at paddle boarding and kayaking, dine on Thai cuisine at Takola or more relaxed cuisine at the beach bar and grill. Activities include yoga, local tours, cooking classes – and there’s a programme for children too.

Expect first-class service and an authentic ambience at this award-winning intimate beachside resort. Holidays here can be versatile, with family adventure, honeymoon romance and relaxation all possible, depending on how you tailor your stay. With just nine rooms and villas, it’s an ideal spot for those wishing to escape the masses. Owned by Bespoke Hospitality Management Asia, the design is bold, innovative, functional and low rise. High ceilings and picture windows bring the outdoors in, and each residence has its own large verandah. Colours are muted, reflected the blondes and blues of its coastal location, with sumptuous bathrooms and in-room minibars. Guests can also recline on daybeds or beanbags by the main pool, visit a nearby fishing village.