On December 1, 2020, Zannier Bãi San Hô, a new gem in the luxury hotel industry, opened its doors in the Phu Yen province of Central Vietnam.
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Spanning 98 hectares of ancient paddy fields, verdant hilltops, and groves of bamboo and palms, Zannier Bãi San Hô is nestled along a kilometre-long white powder beach. This secluded retreat is designed to harmonise with its magnificent surroundings, offering guests an immersive experience in contemporary Vietnamese architecture while reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Arnaud Zannier, CEO of Zannier Hotels, envisioned a resort that would highlight the natural beauty and cultural richness of its location. From the beginning, the goal was to create a sanctuary where guests could connect deeply with Vietnam’s landscapes and traditions. The resort’s 71 standalone villas, three restaurants, two bars, and a spa are designed to integrate seamlessly into the landscape, preserving the soul of the place while offering an intimate connection with nature. Zannier emphasises the importance of cultural enrichment and natural wonder in the design, aiming to create an environment where guests can engage deeply with Vietnamese architecture, history, and landscapes.
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The design of Zannier Bãi San Hô is deeply rooted in local cultures and traditions. Arnaud Zannier spent several months travelling across Vietnam to understand the diverse ways of life, local customs, and traditional construction techniques. This immersion significantly influenced the design, which employs natural local materials such as wood, stone, bamboo, and thatch. Additionally, artefacts sourced from antique markets across Southeast Asia are integrated into the decor, enhancing the sense of authenticity and belonging.
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The architectural vision for Zannier Bãi San Hô extends to its villas, which are thoughtfully designed to reflect traditional Vietnamese architecture while providing modern comfort. The resort features four distinct types of villas, each inspired by different aspects of Vietnamese heritage.
The Paddy Field Villas draw inspiration from the floating villages of local fishermen. Traditionally built on stilts from reclaimed wood, these 49-square-meter wooden villas are designed to be a refuge among the paddy fields. Interconnecting walkways snake through the greenery, and expansive terraces offer stunning views of the countryside. The blue walls and simple interiors reflect the fishermen’s homes, creating a continuity between the inside and outside. Local touches such as Vietnamese conical leaf hats and woven reed fishing baskets decorate the villas, adding to their charm and authenticity.
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Perched on hilltops with panoramic views, the Hill Pool Villas and Grand Bay Pool Villas are inspired by the longhouses of the Rade people from the Central Highlands. The longhouses, known for their succession of rooms and expandable architecture, provided the blueprint for these villas. Featuring long shapes, low tiled roofs, and bamboo cladding, these villas blend seamlessly with their surroundings. The rustic interiors use earthy tones, brushed stone walls, bamboo flooring, and weathered wood. The Grand Bay Pool Villas, constructed on two levels, offer three to four bedrooms, providing ample space and luxury. Lantern-style lighting and other traditional elements further enhance the aesthetic, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
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The Beach Pool Villas are modelled after the houses of the Cham people, who live along Vietnam’s central coasts. These single-level houses, built on wooden stilts with thatched roofs and cob walls, are arranged in orderly rows with west-facing entrances. Positioned directly on the beach, the Beach Pool Villas offer breathtaking sea views and private pools. The interiors evoke the Cham’s simple lifestyle, with beige and cream tones, painted driftwood panels, and cool linens. The design reflects the Chams’ way of living, with an emphasis on simplicity and connection to the natural environment.
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One of the most iconic structures at Zannier Bãi San Hô is the Vietnamese restaurant Bà Hai. This 12-metre-high building, inspired by the Bahnar Communal House, features a nine-metre-high ceiling made of bamboo, rattan, and wood. The steep-sloped rattan roof, supported by diagonal beams, offers both aesthetic appeal and wind resistance. Overlooking the rice fields, Bà Hai is a testament to traditional Vietnamese architecture and craftsmanship. The impressive wood structure, composed of long horizontal beams supported by wooden pillars, showcases the intricate detailing and skill involved in traditional construction techniques.
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The innovative landscaping approach at Zannier Bãi San Hô further sets the resort apart. More than 96.5% of the resort is covered by vegetation, which was meticulously preserved during construction. To support the project, a temporary plant nursery was established, providing endemic vegetation that was later replanted onsite. This initiative resulted in the planting of 30,000 shrubs and grasses, 600 trees, and 500 palm trees. The landscaping not only enhances the resort’s beauty but also supports wildlife habitats and helps manage erosion.
The construction of Zannier Bãi San Hô faced significant challenges, including heavy rains and a government-mandated lockdown. Despite these obstacles, the project was completed on time, thanks to the dedication of up to 800 workers at peak times. The resort, completed in six years from the initial planning stages, has exceeded expectations, providing a little paradise that showcases Vietnam’s unspoilt beauty and rich cultural heritage.
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Zannier Bãi San Hô stands as a tribute to Vietnam’s rich culture and history, offering a unique blend of traditional and contemporary design. Through the use of local materials and sustainable practices, the resort not only respects the environment but also creates an authentic and immersive experience for its guests. Arnaud Zannier’s vision has been realised in this stunning resort, where every detail tells the story of Vietnam’s architectural and cultural legacy. The resort’s design encapsulates the essence of Vietnamese traditions while providing a luxurious, modern retreat for visitors from around the world.
| Zannier Bãi San Hô Contact: [email protected] |
