Carved into the natural rock formations on a forested Koh Samui hillside, Waterfall Villa is an astonishing private residence that successfully blurs the lines between architecture and nature.

Part of the peaceful Santikhiri Estate on the southern tip of the island, as soon as you enter this unique, inspired property you see why it lives up to it’s name. A waterfall cascades down a 14 m. granite rock face right inside the villa, an intriguing ecological design feature that also forms a natural 7m. indoor plunge pool with a natural stone bench to sit on beneath the falling water, a welcome respite from the tropical heat.

Granite boulders also frame the villa’s generous ensuite bathing spaces, a testament to the owner’s commitment to work with, rather than against, the villa’s natural foundations. The interiors include hued woods, what washed walls and beamed ceilings. All of which combine to deliver an atmosphere of warmth and authenticity.