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DESIGNWORKS 2025
Student – Honorable Mention
Studio IV Hospitality
Boone, NC
Morgann Owens (Appalachian State University)
Set in the heart of Bangkok, the Sasi Massaya Resort envisions an urban biophilic hotel that blends sustainability, wellness, and Thai heritage into a restorative retreat from city life. Anchored by Kad, a signature restaurant serving authentic Thai cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients, the hotel immerses guests in cultural storytelling while supporting sustainable practices. Drawing inspiration from the pla kat (Betta fish), a Thai symbol of resilience and beauty, the design incorporates organic forms, natural materials, and water features to create fluid, restorative spaces that reconnect guests with nature. Building A, a converted shophouse with public amenities and budget-friendly rooms, engages the bustling streetscape, while Building B offers tranquil, premium accommodations tucked behind in a U-shape.
Guided by hotelier Suda Khumalo’s vision of merging sustainable tourism with Thai identity, the project creates a sanctuary for a diverse range of travelers seeking balance between culture, comfort, and nature. Located near the historic Wat Makhud Krasatriyaram, the hotel reflects King Rama IV’s legacy of modernization while embracing today’s global sustainability standards. Designed with LEED and WELL criteria, the resort prioritizes energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and biophilic principles such as light, ventilation, and refuge. The result is a holistic hospitality experience, one that celebrates Thai culture, nurtures well-being, and offers guests a tranquil oasis within the vibrant rhythm of Bangkok.
