Phuket, a world-renowned resort destination, beckons with its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. With its year-round warm and sunny climate, pristine sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters, the island is a haven for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. The historic old town, with its distinctive Sino-Portuguese architecture, adds another layer of allure to this captivating destination. Phuket’s exceptional qualities were recently recognized when it was voted the best island in Asia by Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice 2023.

Phuket’s real estate market is currently witnessing a notable surge in demand for condos and villas, particularly in prime coastal locations. According to Ho Kuang Ping, property investment in Phuket offers exceptional returns, with the market poised for continued growth as more businesses establish a presence on the island. Affluent Thais and foreign buyers are drawn to Phuket’s unparalleled lifestyle offerings and the stunning natural beauty of the Andaman coast.

Ho Kuang Ping, Founder and Chairman of Banyan Group, is a staunch believer in Phuket’s untapped potential. He asserts that Phuket has transcended its image as a mere tourist destination, evolving into a global hub for luxury living, complete with world-class infrastructure, top-tier services, and a robust development pipeline. In his view, the island’s growing appeal among High Net Worth Individuals (HNWI) and the increasing demand for upscale housing present a unique opportunity for Banyan Group to expand its residential portfolio in Phuket’s ongoing transformation is further bolstered by the expansion of its airport, designed to accommodate the growing influx of travelers, and the impending launch of the electric rail project, which will significantly enhance connectivity and accessibility across the island. These developments will be key catalysts in unlocking the city’s full potential and solidify its position as a premier global destination.

Paris La Défense Arena

Paris La Défense Arena, designed by 2P Architectes & Associés, was originally planned as a rugby stadium but later transformed into a multifunctional venue. It now includes 31,000 square meters of office space, showcasing a distinctive integration of sports and business architecture. The arena’s exterior has a horizontal design created with glass and aluminum flakes that diffuse daylight. This gives it a welcoming look that contrasts with the spacious interior. Inside, there is a 40-meter-high vault that can accommodate up to 30,400 spectators, making it the largest enclosed arena in Europe. The innovative design includes a fixed roof supported by four mega beams spanning 150 by 110 meters and a versatile ground that can switch from synthetic turf to an auditorium floor within hours. At night, the facade’s colors create a dynamic effect, making the Paris La Défense Arena a striking example of contemporary multifunctional architecture.

Photograph: Agence Christian de Portzamparc