Urban Praxis
A breathtaking new resort has made its debut near Thailand’s Khao Yai National Park, thanks to Bangkok-based architectural firm Urban Praxis. While the accommodations are noteworthy on their own, it’s the dramatic, semi-cantilevered transparent pool that truly steals the spotlight.
Thailand’s First National Park Provides a Scenic Backdrop
Founded in 1962, Khao Yai holds the title of Thailand’s first national park. Located roughly 200 kilometers (124 miles) north of Bangkok, it spans more than 2,200 square kilometers (about 850 square miles) of predominantly evergreen forest, which serves as a sanctuary for Thailand’s richest biodiversity. Though several hotels are nestled near the park, Hotel MYS Khao Yai, opened just last year, stands out with a pool unlike any other.
Reminiscent of the floating pool from the 2013 sci-fi film Oblivion starring Tom Cruise, the hotel’s standout feature is a 9-meter-long (30-foot) acrylic pool that projects outward from the resort’s central core, suspended over the main reception area below.
Urban Praxis
With its transparent front edge, the pool offers swimmers the sensation of gliding straight toward the lush landscape of the park. Supported by two graceful beams beneath, the structure’s semi-cantilevered form creates a striking visual. While Urban Praxis crafted the overall design of the resort, the pool’s engineering was developed in collaboration with Reynolds Polymer, a company known for their expertise in acrylic structures and large-scale aquarium design.
A Pool That Blends Thrill and Tranquility
“The acrylic sky pool with unobstructed views of the mountains allows guests to feel immersed in nature,” the architects explain. “Adding a touch of thrill, the cantilevered pool gives the impression of swimming into the sky.”
The remainder of the resort draws inspiration from Scandinavian design principles, featuring 16 guest rooms, six private villas with their own heated pools, and a three-bedroom master villa. The rooms follow what the design team calls an “elevated ground floor” experience, intended to mimic the feeling of stepping into a forest cabin from ground level.
Urban Praxis
Reaching this luxurious five-star getaway may require some travel effort, but for now, visitors can explore the stunning design through photos and video. And for those considering a visit, nightly rates start around US$200—remarkably affordable for a resort boasting one of the most captivating pools in the world.
Read the original article on: New Atlas
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