design qua builds house in kalim beach, thailand, with curved infinity pool + bamboo screens

bangkok-based architecture firm design qua has built the kalim beach house on a narrow and vertical site, located on a hill with an 180-degree view of kalim bay in phuket, thailand. the residence comprises four bedrooms, a large shared living/dining space, and a curved infinity pool, all of which are contained within two large board-form concrete walls. a vertical courtyard with a grand staircase that leads users to the living area and pool level below is the main focal point of the building and also contributes to keeping the surrounding spaces cool and ventilated.all images by levi wells

the challenging narrow and vertical site of the kalim beach house led design qua to develop the project with an approach from the top level, where the grand staircase of the vertical courtyard leads residents down to the living area and pool level below. given the spectacular bay views, the house is facing west, in order to take full advantage of the beautiful andaman sunsets. all living areas are contained within two large board-form concrete walls, while huge sliding bamboo screens have been installed in front of all the upper floor bedrooms to offer shade from the strong tropical sun and provide an extra layer of privacy.

bamboo has been used throughout the house for protection from the sun, both in vertical and horizontal screens. next to the vertical courtyard, a second focal point of the house is the large infinity-edged swimming pool located by the living area. the pool extends out into the horizon like a giant circular mirror that reflects the sky while echoing the gentle curve of the bay.

project info:

name: kalim beach house

architect: design qua

total floor area: 700 sqm

location: kalim bay, phuket, thailand