Standing out amongst the crowd on Chaweng Beach, The Library is the perfect alternative to the party lifestyle hotels, surrounding the property on Koh Samui island.
When you visit the island of Koh Samui, you have your pick of hotels to choose from. But if you’re like us and like to be in the center of the town, yet secluded in privacy, than the Library is the perfect home. Surrounded by the sandy shores of Chaweng Beach and the bustling nightlife of the town center, all the action you could want is just steps away, yet at the library things are relaxed and quiet…sort of like a library.
With it’s blood red pool, red beach umbrellas and perfectly manicured beach front, the Library definitely stands out amongst the crowd on Chaweng Beach. It’s a minimalist hotel with modern furniture and a monochrome color scheme, yet amongst all the minimalism you feel comfortable and completely at ease. You’ll notice life size sculptures throughout the property depicting people readying and you can’t miss the stunning all white library, littered with a vast collection of all kinds of books from novels, to the best by Taschen.
Arriving at the Library
Just a short drive from the airport and we had arrived at the Library. The discreet entrance is marked by a white sculpture of a person sitting on a bench and reading a book, with a small sign, indicating you have arrived. If you aren’t looking for the entrance, you’ll probably just walk right pass it as it blends in with the surrounding hustle of Chaweng Beach.
We were immediately welcomed with drinks and ice cold towelettes to freshen up with. After a speedy check in, we were give a quick tour of the property, before being shown our new home. The property is neat, organised and the stark white houses are meticulously situated to blend in when the surrounding nature. The trees seem to grow around, in between and in some cases through the property structures. With only 26 rooms sprawled across an acre and a half of land, the Library is quiet and a welcome break form the crowds of Chaweng.
Our Suite
We were in a studio suite which was on the top floor of one of the houses. Our entrance was private and we had ample outdoor and indoor space to lounge around and relax. Keeping in line with the minimalist design approach, our suite was uncluttered, yet efficiently decorated. Everything was stark white with black trim and a few hints of red. Our floor to ceiling windows looked out onto the balcony which then looked out into the courtyard, full of lush trees. It was as if the trees were acting as interactive wall paper, purposely meant to be part of the design.
Our bathroom was sleek and modern with a fabulous bath tub to soak in. I’m a sucker for a great bath amenities and the Library didn’t dissapoint. I had my choice of salts and bubbles and plenty of loofha brushes. The concept at the Library is to provide a private and stylish living space, rather than a typical hotel accommodation. Job well done, as our suite felt much more like a well decorated studio rather than a hotel room.
Dining At The Library
Without a doubt, the best cocktails we had in Koh Samui were at the Drink Gallery at the Library. Facing the busy Chaweng Beach Road, we were able to see the hustle of the nightlife, all in the comfort of a really great bar, with inventive cocktails and served with delicious food. While at the bar we decided to indulge in their "cocktail pairing" menu which paired western food (with a bit of Thai influence, of course) with various cocktails specifically crafted to accompany each dish. Think comfort food, with a modern twist and classic cocktails, given a facelift, all set in a modern yet artistic setting...this is the Drink Gallery.
Of course if you want to sit on the beach and listen to the waves, the Library has you covered with their modern restaurant, Page. You can have an elegant contemporary meal in the evening (highly recommend the beef cheeks), or have breakfast in ultimate comfort! Wake up as the sun is rising, head down to the Page, grab a bed on the beach and watch the sun rise as you nibble on breakfast. It's a little piece of heaven.
For more information about the Library make sure to visit their website: