Datai Langkawi, Luxury resort in Langkawi, Malaysia
Datai Langkawi is a resort set across a large property surrounded by a rainforest roughly 10 million years old. It offers 121 rooms organized into three types: canopy, rainforest, and beach collections.
The resort was designed in 1993 by architect Kerry Hill with a strong focus on environmental protection. The construction process carefully avoided heavy machinery and preserved existing trees, shaping the relationship between building and nature from the start.
The architectural design draws from Malaysian, Chinese, and Indian traditions, creating spaces that blend these influences together. Guests notice these cultural touches throughout the buildings and outdoor areas.
The resort operates five restaurants serving Malaysian and international food, along with guided rainforest walks and water activities led by naturalists. Guests can mix and match activities based on their interests.
The resort won the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 2001 for its environmental integration and innovative design. This recognition celebrated how successfully the building and nature work together.
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