Natural stone cladding is often seen as a symbol of timelessness and luxury, but in Koh Samui’s climate, it’s less about appearances and more about performance. Where other materials can crack, stain, or erode under tropical pressure, properly selected and installed stone holds its ground. Choosing the Right Stone for Coastal Conditions Not all stone […]
Ceramic tiles are a reliable staple in Koh Samui villas, offering practical performance in humid, salt-laden environments. While vinyl, natural stone, and porcelain all have their place, ceramics balance cost, durability, and versatility. But not all tiles (or installations) are equal. This post looks at what works, what to avoid, and how to specify ceramic […]
Koh Samui’s tropical monsoon climate (marked by long dry spells, sudden downpours, and humidity levels exceeding 80%) places unique demands on hardwood flooring. While timber brings warmth and elegance to villa interiors, only certain species, finishes, and construction methods can withstand the island’s seasonal extremes. Understanding how to build for this climate begins with the […]
Private wells are the most common water source for villas in Koh Samui, but island groundwater often contains salt, hardness minerals, or biological contaminants. Without proper filtration, this can affect both health and the longevity of plumbing systems. As water shortages and unpredictable well quality become more common, integrating a reliable in-villa filtration system is […]
Building a tropical villa in Koh Samui isn’t just about picking a design and watching it come to life—it’s about navigating an environment of 80% humidity, 30–35°C heat, and monsoonal downpours averaging 200 mm per month. In this setting, a non custom design using the wrong materials or layout can turn a dream home into a maintenance disaster. […]
Natural stone surfaces bring a blend of elegance and durability to tropical villas in Koh Samui, where high humidity, intense heat, and salty air can compromise many materials. Selecting the right type of stone, combined with appropriate installation and maintenance, ensures lasting performance under island conditions. Marble and Granite: Aesthetic and Functional Qualities Marble is valued […]
Why Choose Aluminium Windows and Doors for Tropical Villas? When designing tropical villas, aluminium windows and doors are among the most practical and climate-resilient choices — particularly in Koh Samui’s coastal environment. Performance in a Humid, Salt-Laden Climate Aluminium frames resist warping, rotting, and rust, making them highly suited to high-humidity locations. Unlike timber, they […]
In coastal regions like Koh Samui, not every material is up to the task. Between high humidity, salt-laden breezes, and strong UV exposure, traditional building materials can struggle to hold their shape or appearance over time. Aluminium, however, performs consistently in these conditions, and that’s why it’s one of the most reliable options in tropical […]
Introduction to HPL in Tropical DesignHigh-pressure laminates (HPL) are transforming villa interiors in Koh Samui, offering a blend of durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal tailored to tropical climates. As architects specializing in sustainable and stylish designs, we at Architect Samui understand the unique challenges of building in humid, high-heat environments. HPL, made by compressing layers […]
Ceiling Fans for Your Samui Home: A Practical Architect’s Guide Ceiling fans are one of the most cost-effective and reliable ways to stay cool in Koh Samui’s tropical climate. Whether you’re designing a beachfront villa in Chaweng or furnishing a hillside apartment in Lamai, choosing the right fan can dramatically improve comfort, cut energy bills, […]
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