The Essence of Nature
The Essence of Nature defines PRY1 as a resort shaped by its original landscape. Every existing tree is preserved, allowing nature to lead the design. The arc-shaped layout follows the lake’s natural curve, forming organic gathering and camping spaces. Walking and cycling paths embrace the mountains and water, inviting active outdoor living. PRY1 becomes a place of deep relaxation and genuine connection with nature.
Project Information ↘︎
Client & Developer
FOREST'N MOUNTAIN RESORT KAO YAI COMPANY LIMITED
Architect
Research Studio Panin,
G4 Architects
Status
Completed
Landscape Area
200,608 Sq.m.
Year
2019
Award
TALA Award (2021)
Design Director
Yossapon Boonsom
Landscape Architect
Charnchai Chitpatabapaibul
Rattanin Peewsook
Poldech Techapasoranan
Horticulturist
La-ongdao Intana
Panita OnSaeng
Jakkrapan Kongklum
Collaborator
C&S Engineering: SST Professional
Photographer: Napat Pattrayanond
Graphic Designer: Supatsorn Boontumma
PRY 1 is the newly renovated incarnation of the former Khao Yai Grandview Resort, located in Prachin Buri Province, just 150 meters from the entrance of Khao Yai National Park. Nestled within a sweeping mountainous landscape, PRY 1 offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying luxurious accommodations and thoughtfully designed recreational facilities
The original resort has been carefully transformed to harmonize with the existing topography and forested environment, integrating architecture and landscape in a way that preserves the site’s ecological character.
The design emphasizes ecological sensitivity and spatial harmony, retaining existing mature trees wherever possible and introducing native Thai trees and understory plants to strengthen biodiversity
The central pond remains a key feature, functioning both as a scenic focal point and a natural water-retention system that manages runoff while maintaining the ecological balance of the property. Circulation, pathways, and programmatic spaces are thoughtfully organized to allow seamless movement through the site, framed by greenery and continuous views of the surrounding mountains.
Entrance Zone
The entrance zone serves as the first impression and establishes a welcoming sequence for visitors. A wide 20-meter gateway and a gently curved feature wall guide guests into the property, while the security post is integrated discreetly into the wall to maintain architectural cohesion. From this point, the central pond emerges as the key visual anchor, framed by mature trees and shaded areas, creating a serene and immersive atmosphere. The spatial arrangement of this zone emphasizes legibility and orientation, guiding visitors naturally toward the main resort areas while immediately introducing the calming presence of nature.
Resort and Conference Zone
The resort and conference zone includes the renovated guest accommodations and communal facilities. While preserving the original structures, this zone has been reimagined to support wellness, fitness, and outdoor recreation. Due to the popularity of the site with cyclists traveling to Khao Yai National Park, dedicated cycling lanes and ramps allow bicycles to access the buildings directly, and pathways around the pond provide scenic cycling and walking routes.
A swimming pool has been added to support triathlon training and leisure, carefully positioned to frame views of the central pond and surrounding mountain ridges, creating the sensation of swimming within a natural landscape. Surrounding plantings provide visual screening, shade, and a comfortable microclimate, enhancing privacy while maintaining openness. Pathways and circulation routes connect all facilities in this zone, integrating programmatic functions with landscape and ensuring fluid movement through the site.
Open Activity and Event Zone
A looped walkway connects all areas of the resort, allowing guests to experience the wetlands, mature trees, and scenic surroundings. Pocket seating is strategically located along the path, offering rest points with curated views of the pond and forest canopy. Plantings in this zone perform both aesthetic and ecological functions, serving as natural drainage and water-absorption areas. The walking and cycling paths around the pond provide additional opportunities for exercise, seamlessly connecting wellness activities with the surrounding natural landscape.
The open activity and event zone occupies the areas of the site largely free of large trees. This space has been developed as a versatile lawn suitable for outdoor events, camping, and communal gatherings. The camping area and amphitheater are arranged in circular layouts inspired by the shape of the central pond, creating visual and spatial harmony with the natural environment. Supporting facilities, including storage rooms, restrooms, and showers, are discreetly integrated to ensure comfort without compromising the space’s openness.
PRY 1 is a thoughtfully designed destination that blends architecture, landscape, and ecological strategy, offering visitors an integrated experience of recreation, relaxation, and immersion in nature. Its organization into Entrance, Resort & Conference, and Open Activity zones allows guests to enjoy both private and communal experiences while remaining continuously connected to the surrounding natural environment.
