Namia River Retreat

Winner of an Outstanding Award in the 2026 WLA Awards – Built Hospitality & Tourism Awards

Namia River Retreat is a five-star sustainable wellness resort located on a five-hectare private island along the Thu Bon River, less than two kilometers from Hoi An Ancient Town. Set within a landscape of tropical abundance and cultural depth, the project honors the identity of Quang Nam Province — a place where nature, history, and craftsmanship coexist in harmony. The design draws inspiration from the area’s UNESCO World Heritage status, emphasizing the preservation of local character and ecological integrity while shaping a contemporary retreat for rest and renewal.

At the heart of the project lies a dialogue between landscape and culture. The design orchestrates a series of calm, flowing gestures that mirror the rhythm of the river. A gently curved bridge connects the island to the mainland, acting not only as a passage but as a sculptural expression of movement and balance. Along the riverbanks, wooden decks and shaded pavilions provide tranquil spots for reflection, while traditional boats glide past, evoking the timeless connection between the community and the water.

Every spatial sequence within the retreat has been composed to heighten sensory awareness. Pathways framed by native vegetation guide visitors through diverse experiences — from open lawns and herbal gardens to secluded courtyards surrounded by tropical species. The material palette, featuring wood, stone, and bamboo, reinforces the natural identity of the place while ensuring comfort and longevity.

In a region with frequent floodings, the “Sanctuary” concept extends to the master plan, integrating sustainability as both principle and practice with actions such as soil preservation, water conservation, and local planting strategies foster ecological resilience. Vegetable and herbal gardens supply organic produce, reflecting a holistic approach to wellbeing that connects nourishment with place.

Namia River Retreat embodies the essence of Pro-Active Wellness Tourism: a destination where culture, landscape, and mindfulness intertwine. It is an invitation to rediscover balance — to experience healing through nature’s quiet beauty and the gentle cadence of the Thu Bon River.

Technical Information

Project Size: 44,099 m²

The landscape design of Namia River Retreat draws inspiration from the region’s riverine and tropical ecosystems, establishing a resilient, ecologically rich, and community-oriented environment. The planting strategy prioritizes native and climate-adapted species that reinforce local identity, enhance biodiversity, and create authentic experiences while supporting long-term resilience and low-maintenance management.

The tree palette includes a diverse mix of shade, flowering, fruiting, and flood-tolerant species. The understory combines shrubs, palms, ferns, grasses, and groundcovers, forming layered habitats that support ecological performance alongside everyday use.

Beyond their environmental role, many species provide edible, medicinal, and aromatic values, as well as habitat value, enriching the landscape with cultural relevance while contributing to long-term ecological resilience.

Locally sourced stone, timber, and brick are used throughout the project to establish a warm and enduring material character. Together with the planting, these materials reflect regional craftsmanship and strengthen the connection between the landscape, its ecological setting, and local identity.