The design concept reinterprets Phuket Old Town's heritage, blending European and Chinese influences with local craftsmanship and innovation. It integrates historical narratives with contemporary elements, creating architecture that feels both valued and relevant.
ARCO is a six-story boutique hotel with a geometric white cement exterior. The façade features arches inspired by traditional “Baba” shophouses, arranged in a rhythmic pattern. The ground floor hosts public spaces, including a triple-arch lobby and a corridor with traditional five-foot arcades (Ngor-Kha-Khi), leading to the elevator foyer which also connects the interior to the pool sanctuary inspired by Chinese opera stages, elevated to overlook the palm courtyard and tropical Southeast Asian landscaping. Abacus-inspired patterns, symbolizing its historical trade route from Europe to China, are subtly woven into furniture, lamps, and sculptures crafted by local artisans.
The achievement of ARCO showcases how principles and local knowledge in spatial design, perception and innovation can be integrated with historical context, highlighting the enduring value of past wisdom and its relevance today.
