Lieb Tang Rodfai Villas Pattaya by Mario Kleff
Long-span residential architecture and post-tensioned concrete development in Pattaya, Thailand
Luxury Villa Development · Completed Project · Built Work
An integrated approach to architecture, structure, and construction, designed and developed by Mario Kleff.
Note on roles: In Thailand, a licensed local architect signs permits (architect of record). Mario Kleff is the design architect, responsible for concept, architectural design, and structural systems, working with Thai architects and contractors on execution.
The Lieb Tang Rodfai Villas are a large-scale luxury residential development in Pattaya, comprising 11 private pool villas and one boutique hotel on a 9,600 m² land plot. Completed in 2025, the project applies long-span residential architecture through post-tensioned concrete systems and advanced engineering strategies.
Award-Winning Luxury Resort Architecture in Thailand
Mario Kleff® Architects is recognized among the leading Thailand luxury resort architects, earning the Luxury Lifestyle Award for Best Luxury Resort Architecture in Thailand. The award-winning Sundiego Resort Villa showcases world-class resort design, blending modern tropical architecture with high-end villa living. This achievement reinforces Mario Kleff’s reputation for delivering innovative, award-winning luxury villa architecture in Thailand’s competitive hospitality market.
Also known as Sundiego Resort Villa Pattaya, the project represents a continuation of the architectural principle developed by Mario Kleff, known as “Structure Is Design”. This approach applies structural systems as the primary generator of spatial organization and architectural expression. Full project documentation is available in the comprehensive architectural and structural white paper.
The development establishes a benchmark for engineering-driven residential construction in Thailand, combining large-span structures with climate-responsive tropical design.
Project Description
Located in Pattaya, the Lieb Tang Rodfai Villas development is a multi-unit residential project designed to explore long-span architectural systems in low-rise luxury housing. The project includes villas ranging from approximately 700 m² to 1,600 m² of living space.
The design emphasizes open-plan living environments, reducing internal structural interruptions through post-tensioned slabs and long-span concrete systems. Spaces are organized around interior courtyards, connecting living areas with gardens and pool environments.
Architectural Approach
The project is defined by a structural-led design methodology, where engineering systems directly shape spatial and architectural outcomes. The villas are designed to maximize openness, natural ventilation, and visual continuity.
While structurally modern, the exterior forms are adapted to the local context through Thai-Bali roof typologies, creating a balance between contemporary engineering and regional architectural language.
“Structure is not an addition to design — it is the origin of it.”
Structural Strategy
A central feature of the development is the use of post-tensioned and prestressed concrete systems to achieve large column-free spaces.
- Prestressed concrete girders spanning up to 30 meters
- Post-tensioned slabs and foundations across all primary structures
- Integration of cellular beam systems within concrete elements
- Large-span structural grids minimizing internal supports
The largest villa incorporates multiple 30-meter girders, enabling expansive interior volumes rarely achieved in residential construction in Thailand.
Comparable long-span structural strategies are also applied in the Majestic Residence Signature Villa, where large-span systems define spatial organization at a single-residence scale.
Construction Technology
The project utilizes ultra-high-strength concrete and advanced reinforcement systems to achieve structural performance requirements.
- Concrete performance: approximately 1,139 kN compressive load capacity at 14 days, equivalent to approximately 1,180 kgf/cm²
- High-grade reinforcement steel (DB20, DB25, DB32 ST50)
- Post-tensioning across foundations, slabs, and beams
Material sourcing and construction processes were adapted to meet the requirements of high-performance concrete, including specialized aggregate supply and controlled casting conditions.
Project Constraints
The project site required coordination between structural innovation and environmental adaptation. Tropical climate conditions, including humidity and heat, informed material selection and building detailing.
Large structural spans required precise engineering coordination to ensure long-term stability, deflection control, and durability under residential loading conditions.
Construction and Development
2022
- Project initiation and site preparation
- Foundation works and structural layout
2023
- Completion of primary structural systems
- Installation of post-tensioned beams and slabs
2025
- Completion of Phase 1 and Phase 2
- Finalization of villas and architectural detailing
Construction sequencing required coordination between structural engineering, material supply, and on-site execution to maintain performance standards.
Materials and Envelope
The architectural expression combines structural materials with climate-adapted design elements.
- Post-tensioned concrete structures
- High-performance glazing systems
- Thick wall assemblies for thermal performance
Large openings connect interior spaces with courtyards and pools, enhancing natural ventilation and spatial continuity.
Environmental Considerations
- Integration of interior courtyards for airflow
- Large openings for natural ventilation
- Shaded outdoor spaces to reduce heat gain
The design reduces reliance on mechanical cooling while improving indoor comfort in a tropical climate.
Project Team
- Architect: Mario Kleff
- Co-Architect: Waraporn Na-Lampang
- Structural Engineer: Dr. Songkiat Matupayont
- Interior Design: Liu Wei, Zhang Wei
- Contractor / Developer: Wandeegroup Asia Co Ltd
About the Architect
Background and methodology of the project’s author can be explored here: Mario Kleff – Architectural Approach & Design-Build Practice.
Market Context
Pattaya, at the centre of Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), is transitioning from a tourism hub to a long-term residential and investment market, driven by major infrastructure projects including high-speed rail and regional connectivity.
Inland Jomtien reflects this shift, with low-density villa and mixed-use development on individually titled plots, shaped by fragmented urban growth and car-dependent access. Demand is driven by second-home, rental, and owner-occupier use, with value linked to accessibility, land size, and build quality rather than beachfront proximity.
Additional context: Market Insights and Developments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who designed the Lieb Tang Rodfai Villas?
The project was designed and developed by architect Mario Kleff.
What makes this project unique?
The use of post-tensioned concrete and 30-meter structural spans enable large open-plan residential spaces uncommon in Thailand.
Where is the project located?
The Lieb Tang Rodfai Villas are located in Pattaya, Chon Buri, Thailand.
Is the project design protected?
Yes, the architectural design and project name are protected under intellectual property rights owned by Mario Kleff.