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Robert Powell studied at the Faculty of Architecture at the University of New South Wales, Australia, between 1970-72.
As an architect, he was equally passionate about designing new buildings as he was about restoring historic architecture. Project highlights include the design of urban hotels in Nepal and the Middle East, a high altitude hotel in Tibet, and Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary in Thailand, for which he chose a ‘simple, tropical modern’ design.
Powell’s architectural designs always bore the hallmarks of his fascination and respect for Asian traditions, as well as his sensitivity to the setting.
This quote from Robert Powell describing the approach he took when designing Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary illustrates how vital it was for him to integrate nature and the environment into his work:
“The buildings were designed to take full advantage of their individual setting; the views, the rocks, the trees, and their relationship to other buildings. The mood, the feeling, was to be quiet and peaceful, spacious and expansive, natural and very comfortable, not extravagant nor over-designed. Instead of the luxury of expensive material and opulence, there is the greater richness of space, light and unique views over a very special seascape. Few designers have the privilege to work with such a site and such a brief. I was clear that this rare chance must be reflected in a respect for the beauty and integrity of the land and its special character.”
1975-1979
Romegroup, Architectural design work for projects throughout the Middle East.
1979
Design of two-hectare air conditioned Islamic garden for King Khaled of Saudi Arabia. Commissioned by Humphreys and Glasgow, UK.
1980-1999
UNICEF project to benefit papermakers in the middle hills of Nepal and artisans in Bhakthapur. Product and production method design.
1981-1983
German Bhakthapur Development Project. Restoration and design work. Commissioned by GTZ.
1985
German Bhakthapur Development Project. Restoration and design of Pujari Math. National Wood Carving Museum. Commissioned by GTZ.
1986
Royal Chitwan National Park, Machan Wildlife Resort. Private Commission.
1987
Pokhara Eye Hospital. 100-bed facility commissioned by Evecare Himalaya, Netherlands.
1992-1997
Member of multi-disciplinary research project funded by the German Research Foundation through the Bon University. Three expeditions to the restricted areas of Mustang, on the Nepal-Tibet border, to document the traditional architecture.
1993
Janakpur Women’s Development Centre. Workshops and gallery for Maithili women’s arts and crafts. Commissioned by JWDC, Nepal.
1997
Fulbari Resort. Lobby, guest rooms, courtyard. Private commission.
1998
Gyalthang Dzong Hotel. 50-room extension. Private commission.
1999
Wanglang Panda Reserve. Visitors’ centre and accommodation. Commissioned by World Wildlife Fund, China.
2005
Kamalaya Wellness Retreat. A 60-room resort. Design of entire resort. Private commission.
2017
Kamalaya Wellness Retreat. Extension with new gym, yoga shala and pool. Private commission.
Located in Thailand on a beautiful body of water, from every corner of Kamalaya, you can view the ocean and hear the soft sound of water running, see Thai spirit houses, and experience the breathtaking glimpses of the tropical gardens. The Asian-inspired buildings, designed by Robert Powell, feel almost as though they are sinking into lush greenery, vivid flowers and even ancient granite boulders (around which they have been carefully constructed). The environment is a key part of the experience. (www.kamalaya.com)
© 2021 Robert Powell & Lieve Aerts Powell
All photos and art courtesy of the artist
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