Trends New Zealand Volume 33 No 4 | Page 83

Some sites present so many challenges that it’s a wonder that anything gets built on them at all. But, paradoxically, the restrictions that a site presents can also pinpoint the design solutions that make building possible. The clifftop property featured here cer- tainly had major challenges, says Donal Coyne, managing partner at SL+A Bangkok. “It sits in a bowl shape facing due west out to the Andaman Sea, so it’s very dramatic,” says Coyne. “While that gives you beautiful, controlled views, the slope Facing page: Designed by SL+A Bangkok managing partner Donal Coyne, this luxury clifftop villa has two main living pavilions placed to the sides a central arrival pavilion containing a sweeping spiral staircase. Above: The architecture is a blend of contemporary and more traditional forms, such as the peaked roof structure that defines the pavilions. Left: A steep drive leads to the villa’s central arrival pavilion. The master bedroom pavilions are on the right, away from the living areas, while guests are housed in a two-storey structure to the left. search | save | share at