Andaman: A Symphony of Jiangnan Style in Modern Hospitality

Kyan Foo's Andaman Resort Merges Local Culture with Contemporary Design

In the heart of Xinchang's scenic landscape, the Andaman Resort stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of traditional Jiangnan aesthetics and modern design principles. Crafted by the visionary Kyan Foo, this resort is a celebration of cultural integration and architectural innovation.

The Andaman Resort draws its inspiration from the Nineteen Peaks Scenic Area, a tapestry of natural beauty that has shaped the resort's design narrative. Kyan Foo and the design team have meticulously infused the essence of the local environment into every aspect of the resort, creating a seamless transition between the interiors and the picturesque Jiangnan surroundings. The resort's design language speaks of a deep respect for the locality, with the use of rural-style self-built houses that resonate with the region's architectural heritage.

Distinctive for its monochromatic palette, the resort echoes the elegance of Hui-style architecture, reminiscent of a classic Jiangnan ink painting. This design choice not only sets the Andaman apart but also anchors it firmly within its cultural context. The resort's layout is thoughtfully divided, with the lively public areas on the ground floor and serene accommodation spaces above, ensuring a balance between activity and tranquility. Each themed room on the second and third floors offers a unique experience, catering to the diverse preferences of guests.

The realization of the Andaman Resort is a tale of transformation, where traditional building materials have been replaced with contemporary alternatives to achieve a minimalist aesthetic. Microcement paint and strategic color choices have been employed to accentuate the resort's connection with nature. The integration of a social area with a kitchen in the guest rooms fosters a convivial atmosphere, inviting guests to gather and create memories.

Spanning three floors and covering an area of 376 square meters, with an interior design space of 1128 square meters, the resort is a model of spatial efficiency and design excellence. The Andaman is not just a place of accommodation but a destination that offers a holistic experience, where art and abstraction meet the tangible warmth of Jiangnan style.

The resort's operational design is as innovative as its aesthetics, with dual traffic flow lines for staff and guests, ensuring seamless movement and privacy. The transparent design of the waiting and breakfast areas allows for unobstructed views, while the art walls and glass partitions provide a sense of seclusion for the special restaurant. This careful consideration of space and function is evident in every corner of the Andaman, making it a paragon of hospitality design.

From its inception in February 2022 to its completion in October of the same year, the Andaman Resort has been a journey of discovery, with research focused on the interplay of light, shadow, and human interaction within the space. Overcoming challenges such as coordinating international design teams, the resort has emerged as a beacon of global collaboration and design prowess. The Iron A' Design Award in Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2024 is a fitting accolade for this exceptional project, recognizing its contribution to the industry and its embodiment of a better, more beautiful world.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Regalia Group & Forte Design Partners
Image Credits: Image #1-5: Photographer Zhongyi Fan, 2023.
Project Team Members: Design Director: Kyan Foo Interior Design: Yuzi Zhou Visual Design: Sophia Rou
Project Name: Andaman
Project Client: Forte Design Partners


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