PHUKET

Far from the obvious lure of Phuket, on the other end

of the Thai isle – and experiential spectrum – amid dramatic limestone karsts of Phang Nga Bay overlooking the Andaman Sea, stands an utterly modernist structure.

Imagine utopia on a tropical island. Walk up the wide stairs, and this sprawling minimalist monument opens into an astonishing display of vibrant colours, native charm, and unique design. No theatrical Asian resort lobby of opulent furniture and big blooms here – welcoming guests is a fascinating altar-like installation of stacked Thai tables displaying the spirit of Phuket: wooden figurines in pastel washes, traditional

handcrafted bowls, bamboo vases, and fresh market flowers. Lamps are fashioned after hand-woven lobster traps; and pillars “wrapped” in orange monk robes. An

antique temple bell imparts monastic serenity … Artisanal design is the essence of Point Yamu, which celebrates the magical creativity of Paola Navone, the Italian contemporary design icon invited by Como Hotels & Resorts to conceive her first-ever resort. Everything is touched with Navone’s unique aesthetic, from concept art (think folded-paper fish hung above

mirrored trays to cast pond-like reflections) to the smallest details (tableware, menus, bathroom trinkets). “Luxury today can be an appreciation of simplicity and respect of traditions in a contemporary and unaggressive environment,” shares the multi-award-winning Navone.