Five-star resort Keemala, located in the lush woodlands of Kamala in Phuket, Thailand, has opened this week with private pool cottages inspired by the region's indigenous clans.

Designed by Thailand-based Architect Space, with Pisit Aongskultong from Pisud Design Company managing the resort’s creative vision and interior designs, the concept behind Keemala is drawn from stories, cultures, traditions and lifestyles of four particular clans.

The resort has 38 unique guest cottages, each with a different theme.

Sixteen Clay Pool Cottages reflect the earthiness of the Pa-Ta-Pea, or Earth clan, who believed in a strong connection to the earth and harnessed agriculture as their trade. With a selection of one- and two-bedrooms, the cottages range in size from 126sq m to 180sq m (1,356sq ft to 1,938sq ft).

The tent-like structure and wildlife-inspired prints and textures of the seven Tent Pool Villas reflect the nomadic way of life of the Khon-Jorn, or Wanderer clan, who consisted of foragers, performers and traders. With a master bedroom and separate living space, the villas are 140sq m (1,507sq ft).

The seven Tree Pool Houses use building techniques to give the impression that the structures are suspended from trees to represent the We-Ha, or Sky clan, who worshipped the universe. The quirky two-floor villa design is 169sq m (1,819sq ft) and can accommodate up to four guests.

The Rung-Nok, or nest community, inspired the design of eight Bird’s Nest Pool Villas. This group enjoyed an opulent way of life, which is reflected in the exclusive interwoven design of their homes, and these are the most expansive of the villas, with a total space of 185sq m (1,991 sq ft).

The resort also features a Mala Spa with eight treatment rooms alongside a Thai massage pavilion, steam and sauna rooms, a fitness centre, and yoga and meditation spaces. Products are from Voya, Siam Botanicals and Spa Ritual.

The resort promotes the wellness of guests and four personalised holistic living retreats packages – Purify, Energise, Unwind and Rejuvenate – are available as three-day and six-day retreats which include massages, wellness consultation and guidance and daily spa cuisine.

Wellness practitioners from around the world will take up residency throughout the year. During December and January, the resort will welcome Jenny Ostling, who specialises in Arvigo therapy and holistic massage; Andy Mack will offer Dissolve Therapy; Akiko Igarashi will offer Tibetan Singing Bowl Healing; Victoria Kirkwood will offer clinical aromatherapy and acupuncture; and Lisa Levine will offer Arvigo therapy and acupuncture.

Keemala resort in Phuket will have seemingly suspended treehouse villas with private pools