Inside Iris Farm: Stelliers Asia’s Green Hotelier of the Year Leads the Way in Sustainable Hospitality
At Stelliers Asia, we celebrate individuals who redefine excellence in hospitality – not just through service, but through purpose, innovation, and care. This year, our team had the privilege of visiting Iris Farm at Conrad Koh Samui, run by Payap “Khun Pong” Khunkayan, our 2025 Green Hotelier of the Year.
A Living Vision of Sustainable Hospitality
Nestled on 7.5-acres of previously unused hillside, Iris Farm represents Conrad Koh Samui’s deep commitment to blending sustainability with refined hospitality. Named after the Greek goddess of the rainbow, the farm is a symbol of renewal and harmony, supplying up to 70% of the resort’s produce during peak season, including fresh vegetables, herbs, edible flowers, and eggs.
Guided by Passion and Purpose
Guided by Khun Pong, a former bellman turned sustainability lead, Iris Farm operates on a circular economy model that closes the loop between production and consumption. Food scraps from the resort are composted into nutrient-rich soil, fostering regenerative agriculture that emphasises soil health, water conservation, and biodiversity. This sustainable system minimises waste while enhancing the farm’s self-sufficiency – a true example of how environmental responsibility can flourish within hospitality.
Biodiversity in Balance
The farm’s design reflects a deep respect for nature’s balance. Goats, buffalo, and chickens are carefully tended to and play essential roles in maintaining ecological harmony, from natural fertilisation to pest control.
From Soil to Service
Iris Farm’s impact extends far beyond the fields. The farm’s organic produce directly supplies the resort’s kitchens, ensuring that each dish celebrates the island’s seasonal bounty while reducing food miles and packaging waste. This authentic farm-to-table philosophy lies at the heart of Conrad Koh Samui’s culinary identity, connecting guests to the land in every bite.
Inspiring Connection and Awareness
Iris Farm offers guests an opportunity to reconnect with nature and understand the story behind their meals. Visitors are invited to plant herbs, collect freshly laid eggs, feed the farm’s animals, and harvest their own ingredients, culminating in a hands-on experience that inspires mindfulness and appreciation for sustainable living.
Growing Beyond the Resort
Iris Farm also supports the island’s agricultural community and encourages responsible environmental practices. It serves as an educational hub for both staff and guests, nurturing awareness and inspiring others to adopt more sustainable approaches within the industry.
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At Stelliers Asia, we believe that true excellence in hospitality lies in creating impact that lasts. Iris Farm stands as a shining example of this ideal; a place where sustainability meets culinary artistry, and where leadership is measured not only by success, but by stewardship.
Our heartfelt congratulations to Khun Pong and the Conrad Koh Samui team for their inspiring work and for setting a new benchmark for what sustainable hospitality can achieve.