Amanoi Resort | Denniston Architects

“The design aesthetic for Amanoi reflects a contemporary vision of traditional Vietnamese architecture.

The essence of the design is the juxtaposition between architectural components and the magnificent granite boulders, vegetation and views. The large landscaped areas smoothly integrate with each guest pavilion and villa, while terraces and swimming pools add to the drama. Elegant interiors contrast with the rugged environment enhancing the resort’s sense of tranquility.

The lively interplay between layers of rocky outcrops, valleys, views and the dramatic coastline is celebrated in the design. This, along with the generous size and shape of the property, results in an incredibly diverse variety of settings.”

Jean-Michel Gathy of Denniston

1. SITE

Amanoi is set on 42.2 hectares on the coast of Vietnam’s Nui Chua National Park. Renowned for its rugged coastline, the National Park rolls in waves of green hills down from the distant Truong Son Mountains, before thrusting rocky promontories into the East Sea. High bluffs protect sheltered inlets, where white-sand beaches are lapped by turquoise water. Pinnacles of rock pierce the ocean in a multitude of fantastic shapes, and the views from any hilltop location are spectacular.

The resort makes the most of its location, taking advantage of its topography which ranges from a dramatic cliff top and the ridge of a hill, to a protected valley cradling a lotus-filled lake. The private beach is backed by giant boulders which balance above thick evergreen vegetation. Despite the wildness and drama of the site, it is incredibly peaceful and private, with nature all around. In the next cove lies the lively fishing village of Vinh Hy, which has given the bay its name.

The site’s unique characteristics guided Denniston in planning the layout of the resort and deciding on architectural options. The large boulders, the rugged topography and the incredible views are responsible for the choices in locating each component of the project – for example, the Aman Spa by the lake, and the Central Pavilion on the property’s highest point. In view of the relative isolation of the site and its importance as a natural conservation area, Aman needed to remain as discreet as possible in choosing materials, colours, volumes and massing, while retaining a Vietnamese essence to the design. As a result, there is an ever-present contrast between the drama of the site and the refined architectural language, created to complement nature.

2. CENTRAL PAVILION

The Central Pavilion is the resort’s gathering place of the property, a grand and modern interpretation of the ancient Vietnamese ‘communal hall”. It occupies the most commanding position on the site and offers sensational views of the sea and the National Park. From a distance, its graceful roof curves above the tree line – subtly dominating the site whilst still blending into its surroundings. The building sits proudly on the site, but is fully articulated in harmony with the topography. The Pavilion begins 69 metres above the sea level and rises 16.2 metres high.

The structures which comprise the Central Pavilion ingeniously embrace the existing rock formation. As a result, it is reached by climbing two sets of steps covered by Vietnamese roofs which slide into each other. A wonderful sense of arrival and place greets one on reaching the top, as the views are quite overwhelming. The colonnade framing the steps to the highest tier is distinctively elegant and requires little decoration.

At the heart of the Central Pavilion is a contemporary glass enclosure – the Dining Room. Thirteen library-style cabinets with raw silk screens create a magic layer of colour and light, animating the centre of the Dining Room. The layers of fabric reference the mystique of Vietnamese culture, in contrast to the glass walls – like a jewel glowing inside a display. Downstairs from the Dining Room, the Library and Meeting Room are situated. 

Cozy and inviting, the Bar is located on the same level as Dining Room and has been inspired by local tea houses. A collection of photos and paintings by Vietnamese artists graces the walls, and leather chairs are arranged to form a convivial setting.

The remaining area is occupied by terraces set with tables and chairs for al fresco dining. The views are magnificent, especially from the foremost terrace.

The Boutique is part of the Central Pavilion, and is linked to it by several steps. The Cliff Pool is situated around the side of the Central Pavilion, and offers breathtaking views over Vinh Hy Bay and the East Sea, appearing almost suspended over the verdant vegetation of the promontory.

3. AMAN SPA

The Aman Spa is situated on the shore of a tranquil lotus-filled lake in the middle of the property. The atmosphere is serene. Between the spa reception and the lake, a series of lawn terraces descend gradually towards the water and the stilted yoga pavilion. In the background, these layers are continued by the mountains covered by national forest. The gym and Pilates pavilions are built among a grove of light canopy trees creating a diffused light environment. The treatment rooms are scattered amongst thick bushes allowing perfect privacy. Three of the pavilions border the lotus-filled lake and several offer outdoor relaxation areas. Even though the spa is substantial in size and facilities, it disappears almost totally into the site.

4. BEACH CLUB

The Beach Club is a contemporary pavilion built above the dune which slopes to the sea and is framed by cliffs on both sides. Shaded by a plantation of light canopy trees, the entrance consists of a 30-metre-long, five-metre-high wall with intricate timber cladding. Surrounded by timber decking, the 50-metre swimming pool echoes the shoreline and fades into a wall of boulders.

5. GUEST PAVILIONS

Amanoi offers 31 Guest Pavilions scattered along the crest of a hill and tucked into the valley below. There are also five Aman Villas, each comprising a number of pavilions arranged around a large private swimming pool.

Offering either sea views or panoramic National Park vistas, the pavilions blend into their natural surroundings – their grey-tiled roofs barely visible above the tree line.  Sixteen of the Guest Pavilions offer private swimming pools, and each was placed according to topography and views to ensure privacy and the finest outlook.

Inspired by rustic Vietnamese dwellings, the pavilions feature distinctive rooflines.  The dance between the roof curves and the rolling land is subtle and appears almost natural. Interiors incorporate various Vietnamese characteristics including the latticework on the windows, bamboo shades and low eaves which cast shadows on the deck – ideal for escaping the bright sunshine. The two sets of large folding windows opening on the terraces are a strong Vietnamese design element. Floors are of black-tinted cement with Balau Timber inlays, while the paneling for the walls and wardrobes is Rattan Skin. All cabinetry and furniture pieces are crafted from oak. Soft furnishings incorporate traditional materials such as raw silk in yellow gold, mustard and Vietnamese red.

Subtle lotus flower motifs appear throughout the resort, including on the painted plaster panels above the pavilions’ king-size beds. These symbols of the floral kingdom represent ‘enlightenment’ and are frequently used to decorate Vietnamese temples. They also contrast beautifully with parallel lines, found rarely in nature, but used to great effect at Amanoi to subtly establish the resort’s presence amidst the exuberant wilderness.