A Trip Back to Childhood Home Design
Remember the houses we happily drew as kids—three‑pointed roofs perched on square bases, surrounded by lush lawns and the occasional tree or two? Those memories are the secret sauce behind the 12 villas tucked into Roukh Kiri Khao Yai, a breezy farmhouse‑style resort that sits just on the edge of Thailand’s famed Khao Yai National Park.
Why It Feels Like Home
When Bangkok‑based studio Onion set out to design this hilltop hideaway, they didn’t just take inspiration from classic forms; they re‑imagined luxury with:
- Clean, crisp lines that cut through the jungle jungle boom.
- Serene simplicity– no gaudy embellishments, just pure, calming vibes.
- Warm, inviting interiors that make you feel like you’ve slipped back into the favorite childhood drawing.
Location, Location, Location!
Perched on a gentle rise, the resort offers:
- Stunning views of the Khao Yai forest.
- Easy access to wildlife trails and waterfalls.
- Peaceful nights framed by the chorus of jungle frogs.
Final Thoughts
It’s as if Onion’s creative team took a dusty sketchbook, added a dash of sunshine, and turned those simple childhood homes into a place where you can unwind, rediscover your sense of wonder, and maybe even find a tree‑hugging moment that your younger self would have cherished.
Roukh Kiri: A Farm‑Bungalow Escape in the Heart of Thailand
Picture this: you’re strolling beneath Khao Yai’s iconic peaks, and then you drop into a place that feels like a European countryside farmstead, right in the middle of Southeast Asia. That’s the promise of Roukh Kiri.
What Makes It Feel Like a Farmstead
- Logs for the walls – Those sturdy, tightly packed timber walls give the whole area a rustic charm.
- Double barn doors – Knock a dent into one of the two massive doors, and you can’t help but feel like you’re in a real barn.
- An organic layout – With wide pathways and open spaces, the resort mirrors the feel of a farmhouse surrounded by fields.
The Backstory: From Private Getaway to Shared Retreat
Roukh Kiri was initially conceived as a personal rural retreat for its owners in Bangkok. They dreamed of a secluded hide‑away where they could escape the city bustle and enjoy the serenity of nature. That dream quickly evolved into something bigger. Now, the place welcomes friends and guests alike, turning the old idea of a family farm into a full‑scale resort where anyone can experience the same peaceful vibe.
Why You’ll Love It
- Nature‑centric mood – Stride through the lush surroundings and feel your worries melt away.
- Homey comfort – Cozy rooms and wooden décor offer a relaxed, grounded atmosphere.
- Fun for all ages – From scenic hikes to gentle farm‑style activities, there’s something for everyone.
So, whether you’re a Bangkok‑based explorer or a tourist looking for a slice of authentic Thai countryside, Roukh Kiri invites you to step into a place that feels both old‑world farm and modern retreat. Get ready to swap your skyline for a view of rolling hills, surrounded by the best columns of wood and air of fresh wonder.
Reimagining Rural Chic
From Farmhouse Roots to Modern Marvels
Picture this: a team of design wizards cast away all the clutter of the modern world and started with a simple farmhouse dream. Their mission? Blend the humble charm of the countryside with sleek, contemporary vibes.
Sketching the Future
- Each villa began as a hand‑drawn sketch—think “child’s doodle” meets architectural genius.
- The designers stripped every detail down to its purest geometric shape—circles, squares, and a dash of playful asymmetry.
- Those quirky triangle roofs? They were turned into flat, shingled ceilings angled at 31° and 48°—the perfect “just‑off‑by‑a‑bit” slope.
Planting the Scene
- Whitewashed homes were scattered across lush gardens bursting with feathergrass and mango trees.
- Instead of rigid layouts, the houses were tucked into an organic, almost “random” arrangement, giving the whole project a relaxed, village‑vibe.
- Walking through the collection feels like stepping into a serene snapshot of a quiet countryside, only with a modern twist.
The Result
When you pause to look, you’ll notice how the sleek, minimal architecture coexists with the soft, natural feel of the gardens—an elegant balance that feels both grounded and up‑to‑date.
Inside a Craftsman’s Fancy Villa
Meet the mastermind behind the design: Wilson Tungthunya from W Workspace – the guy who turned a range of villas into a living craftsperson’s playground.
Room Sizes that Wow
- From a cozy 65 sqm hideaway to an expansive 364 sqm space.
- Every square meter feels like a step closer to a handmade retreat.
Wood an’ the Workshop Vibe
- The oak barn door – that robust, textured front that’s basically the wall’s version of a Power Ranger.
- The natural tree stump – not just a side table, but the floor’s latest “statement piece.”
- Every veneer, brace, and grain showcases the raw beauty of wood, giving the place a genuine, rustic flair.
Why It Feels Like a Workshop
Think of the place like a craftsman’s loft: every surface speaks of skill, every corner is a testament to hands‑made artistry. No touch‑up finishes—just honest, raw elegance that invites you to feel the craft.
In short: Wilson Tungthunya’s design isn’t about fancy labels; it’s about turning every wooden element into a story, making each villa a charming, heartfelt masterpiece.
Photo: Roukh Kiri
Imagine stepping into a space where every element tells a story of sustainability and simple elegance.
Materials That Speak Sustainable
- Headboard – crafted with rattan, giving the room a natural, airy feel.
- Bed linens – pure cotton for that fresh, breathable comfort.
- Cushion covers – crocheted with love, adding texture without fuss.
The Colour Palette: Minimalism Meets Warmth
White and beige rule the scene, a crisp backdrop that lets the room’s rich wood tones shine. Think of it as a quiet spotlight on the furniture’s natural beauty.
Cozy Nook: The Deep Window Seat
Picture a long window seat, cushioned, inviting you to curl up and unwind. It’s the room’s secret retreat – a comfy penpals’ corner for whatever drama a day brings.
Welcome to the Villa Escape
Small-Sized, Big Charm
Each villa is a little piece of paradise, with a semi–outdoor bathroom that makes you feel right next to nature. Even the mirror is strategically placed – you can actually see yourself surrounded by a lush garden.
Cozy, Rustic Interior
- Shingled wood ceilings that mimic a hut roof, adding a rustic vibe.
- Bright, spa‑like white walls paired with luxurious Carrara marble.
- A glass‑paneled door that opens straight into the outdoors.
The Outdoor Bathtub Experience
Step over the glass and get ready to splash under the stars. Perfect for those who love a splash of adventure and a cozy evening in a cool, natural setting.
Green Goodness All Around
True to the resort’s sustainable spirit, every bathroom amenity is made from natural ingredients. So you can enjoy a refreshing bath knowing it’s good for you and for the planet.
Kickin’ Back on the Rescued Riviera
Picture this: a sprawling, open‑air lounge that’s basically a sala—the Thai version of a chill temple corner—soaked in sunshine and groomed by the cool southwest breezes. Think of it as a stretchable, double‑height canvas that lets the world’s soundtrack come through. The roof, complete with a gabled design, is slated with Teng wood, giving it that rustic, beach‑y vibe you find only in Old‑World Thailand.
Why Everyone Loves It
- Air‑y Architecture: The soaring ceilings create a natural draft tunnel—each breath feels like a surf‑board paddle.
- Traditional Shade: Bamboo blinds with a classic twist keep the sun at bay without stifling the vibe.
- Couch Comfy: White sofas that look like clouds but actually support your back while you sip a drink.
The Layout
Picture a pavilion that faces the southwest wind—exactly where you want to catch the breezy kiss that whispers you to just pause the world. It’s as if the designer had a direct line to a personal fan: “Sun’s on, breezes in, nothing else.” The GABLES on the roof—slick and straight—serve as a subtle reminder that you’re getting a splash of sly sophistication amid the raw nature.
Takeaway
Whether you’re a laidback retiree, a daring influencer, or a bewildered tourist who suddenly wants to call the place “The Blue”, this lounge guarantees you a beach‑in‑the‑heart vibe on four walls of luxury bedding, breezes, and a gentle, darling pattern of shade.
Welcome to the Natural Oasis
Picture this: A fabulous outdoor pool tucked right next to the lounge – so slick and natural it could be mistaken for a grand pond.
Why This Pool Stands Out
- Saltwater Goodness – No ordinary tiles. Instead, the edges are crafted from rough-hewn stone, giving it that rustic, “just carved out of the earth” vibe.
- Green Carpet – Alongside the water comes a generous carpet of wild grass, turning the scene into something straight out of a summer postcard.
- Mountainview Dashboard – Look out, and you’re treated to sweeping views of the green‑clad peaks of Khao Yai National Park. The pool practically takes a dip right in the heart of nature.
Why You’ll Love It
This is the perfect spot for a chill swim or a playful splash, all while being surrounded by the stunning scenery of Khao Yai. It’s like a private nature spa, offering both relaxation and a dash of adventure.
A Fresh Slice of Thai Paradise
Garden‑to‑table: The Jungle of Flavors
Imagine strolling through a patch of mango trees, then bumping into a row of avocado trees that look a little like sun‑shiny mirrors, and a scattering of lemon trees that are practically bursting with citrus sunshine.
That’s Rooks Kiri Khao Yai’s garden at its heart.
The resort even goes all in on organic veggies. From crisp carrots to sweet sweet potatoes, the farm‑to‑table philosophy is as serious as it is delicious.
- Mango trees for tropical sweetness
- Avocado trees for creamy indulgence
- Lemon trees for zesty bursts
- Organic veggie garden for wholesome crunch
The Wood‑Woven Wonderland
Step into the open‑air restaurant and you’ll feel like you’ve wandered into a living, breathing piece of rustic art.
The entire space is clad in wood – from the ferns on the floor to the cozy walls.
Walls that feel like a warm hug and beams that look like the building’s skeleton, guiding your gaze upward to the lofty ceiling.
And when it comes to ambiance, candlesj are perched on wooden slice coasters that give the whole place a romantic, almost movie‑scene vibe. Prestigious? Romantic? You’ve got both in one silky package.
All the Details You Need
Location: 10 Pong Ta Long, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand.
Got cravings? All the garden’s produce finds its way to the in‑house restaurant, transforming it into classic Thai dishes that feel like a return to the countryside and a nod to culinary heritage.
Why Visit?
All it takes is a breath of fresh Thai air and a feast for the senses. From the sweet scent of mango blossoms to the savory aroma of locally grown veggies, Rooks Kiri Khao Yai promises a look, a taste, and a whole expedition for your soul.
