Sanuk Residences | Lanna Style

In many magnificent locations in Thailand, many beautiful homes are being built. Most of them are in the coastal regions. Their purpose is mainly for vacation, rent, the winter period or for enjoyment in retirement. The houses are relatively luxurious and are close to the holiday resorts. The accent lies on the 'here and now' and not on the long term.

In Chiangrai, Sanuk Residences build houses for more active foreigners. These range from early retirees, who still wish to play an active part in society, to people from Western countries, who have immigrated and wish to embrace a different lifestyle. Taking into consideration the surroundings, which offer good possibilities for the short, medium and long term, and due to the stable growth of Asia, especially of nearby China, we have decided on types of houses that meet the following criteria:

• As user-friendly as possible with maximum privacy for permanent residents and their guests.
• Situated on spacious sections within a resort, each with an undisturbed, beautiful view.
• Built to fulfil Western quality norms and standing on bored foundations.
• A layout suited to life in the tropics, such as integrated terraces.
• Their own identity, which fits the culture of the Lanna region, covering the border districts of South China, the Shan state in Burma, West Laos and North Thailand.
• A decorative style, which offers the Westerner an exotic feel and exudes grace.
• The 'Lanna' style houses are best accustomed to the climate in this area.

What is 'Lanna style'?

Sanuk Residences offers five unique types of houses

On this website, you can find a summary of the first three houses that are now ready to be built. One smaller and simpler model and one larger and more luxurious house are still being finalized. In October, the plans will be put forward for approval and then the definitive drawing plans, measurements and reports will probably be available in December 2007.

In other parts of the Sanuk Residence Project, many other types of houses have already been completed. On the Sanuk Residences 'Lanna' project sections, the 'Lanna' style house 'Karun' is being built. This is available for viewing.

Lan and na are two North-Thai words. Lan means million. Na means rice field. It is thus a shortened description of the region with millions of rice paddies. The rice fields in the valleys of the foothills of the mountains are covered in rainforest. Due to the enormous mass of the Himalayas, these mountains Ares set close together. The rice fields are mostly situated along the rivers and numerous streams, the most important being the Mae Khong, the 'mother river'. The area also has many impressive waterfalls and scenic reserves. All of the different natural wonders combined in one region, make for spectacular long-range views.

It is a region with a very rich history spanning a period of approximately one thousand years, with an entirely unique culture, which has been created by the monks who live in the forests, by the farmers in the valleys and the tradesmen from China. The mystical base originated from the forests and was spread by the traders, just as the Silk Road that was founded by Marco Polo.

In the time of King Mengrai the Great, in the 13th Century, a cultural union, as well as a political state were founded in the region. The indigenous people were the Tai, who are now a minority group living in the whole 'Golden Triangle' region of Burma, Laos, China, North Thailand and as far as Vietnam. This group was mixed with the nomadic Mong and Lawa tribes. Buddhism, Animism and certain jungle mysteries formed the basis for the lifestyle and artistic expression, such as the unique building style. A feature is the Kalae. This is a decorative point on the rooftops in the form of a cross or sometimes painted in order to keep away the evil spirits and bad luck. Dance, music and friendliness were pleasing to the good spirits and today, they are still treated as part of society.

In the summer, when the tropical sun warms the valleys, the 'Lanna' houses remain cool due to the separate rooms, the large patios that are supported by sturdy beams and the ceilings, which are equipped with clever air circulation and ventilation systems.

In the times when there was a lot of unrest in the neighbouring kingdoms and those that expanded to the South, such as Sukhothai, Aytthaya and also Bangkok, 'Lanna' always remained peaceful. Originating from Chiang Saek, Chiangrai and then Chiangmai were founded. Later on, the other northern cities of Payao Nana, Uttaradit and Pitsanuloke were founded. Even the isolated city Mae Hong Son was a part of the 'Lanna' region, with many influences coming from the Burmese Mong and the Kmer slaves who had fled from Cambodia. Separated from the rest of Thailand, this area was always a place of peace and friendship. Hospitality and friendliness are shown naturally. The people are clean and take good care of their family, neighbours, acquaintances and guests. The people are very social and meet each other after work on their house patios. Today, this region is still inhabited by the most friendly and beautiful people.

After much research and thought, there are now house models on the architect's desk that fulfil the mentioned criteria of the 'Lanna' features, but are to be constructed with modern building materials and methods. They all belong to the category of 'patio houses'. This means that within the privacy of your own cool house, you can still sit undercover outside with all living comforts within reach. In addition, through a careful positioning of the houses, you have a splendid view of the hills behind your gorgeous garden, mostly with a swimming pool or a beautiful patio pond.

All houses have been designed with the goal of long-term satisfaction and minimal maintenance. The buildings have also measured for strength by the Chiangrai city architect and the building inspector. They have all received a certificate of approval, which meets the standard for excellent western building quality. Besides, as well as being a pleasure to live in, our house presents a fantastic and solid investment in your future.