VanaVasa Resort

High in the forested hills of Tanarimba, Janda Baik, VanaVasa Resort emerges as an architectural response to its remarkable natural setting. Designed by M J Kanny Architect, the two-acre retreat is shaped by the Sanskrit idea of vanavasa, meaning “dwelling in a forest”—a concept that informs not only the resort’s identity but also its relationship with the landscape. Set on a steep hillside surrounded by mature trees, the project began as a 30-room private corporate retreat before evolving into a public resort. Rather than extensively modifying the terrain, the design carefully works around existing trees and avoids the steepest Class 4 slopes. This approach results in a dispersed composition that allows architecture and forest to coexist with minimal intervention. The main building is embedded into the hillside, with parking at ground level, while the first floor accommodates an open-concept restaurant, lounge terrace and pool. Ten bedrooms occupy the upper floor. Across the site, ten chalet structures containing two units each are scattered along the slopes. Connected by buggy tracks rather than conventional pathways, the chalets retain a sense of separation while reducing the need for intrusive infrastructure. Materiality reinforces the retreat’s grounded character. Off-form concrete, exposed brick and unpainted cement define the main structure, while the chalet pods employ prefabricated steel frames, lightweight construction and metal roofing. Their compact forms were assembled on site without concrete or extensive wet trades, reducing construction impact on the fragile terrain. Sustainability is embedded into the resort’s everyday operation. Designed without air-conditioning, the buildings rely on natural ventilation, high ceilings and careful orientation. Insulated roofs, limited west-facing openings, water-efficient fittings, rainwater harvesting and energy-efficient lighting further reduce resource consumption. The project has received Gold Certification from GreenRE.