Two sets of tall sliding doors at the entrance to the main building open to reveal a spectacular open-air, double-height sitting room which faces the garden and pool, and overlooks the rice fields beyond. This space, which seats 12, is simply but very stylishly furnished with two oversized black teak sofas and armchairs set around matching coffee tables. The black upholstery is brought to life with vibrant contrasting green and orange patterned scatter cushions.

Along the back wall of the sitting room, an ancient canoe has been topped with glass and transformed into a 6m-long table; a stunning centerpiece for a buffet dinner. Above the canoe, 10 antique carved wooden panels are framed against the golden sandstone walls. A galleried timber walkway runs above the sitting area and then ducks back to the upstairs of the bedrooms, providing another opportunity to enjoy the views.