Reimagined Dusit Thani Bangkok unveils unique and captivating interiors

Posted in News on 7 October, 2024

Redefining its heritage through a modern lens, the new version of Dusit’s  iconic flagship hotel uniquely aligns Thai cultural and design sensibilities, art and craftsmanship to set a new benchmark for Bangkok.

Dusit Thani Bangkok, the highly-anticipated reimagined flagship hotel of Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, officially held its soft opening on 27 September 2024, unveiling striking interiors designed in collaboration with internationally acclaimed design firm, André Fu Studio.

The main lobby is designed as a new ‘living room’ for Bangkok’s society, offering an elegant gathering space in the city’s most prestigious location.

André Fu

Led by renowned interior architect André Fu, the eponymous studio is celebrated for seamlessly blending cultural heritage with contemporary luxury to create sophisticated and serene environments that deeply connect with their surroundings. The firm’s portfolio boasts a range of prestigious projects, from collaborating with Louis Vuitton for their Objets Nomades collection to designing iconic spaces for world-class hotels such as Claridge’s London, The Upper House Hong Kong, Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto, and Villa La Coste, Provence.

At the newly built 257-key Dusit Thani Bangkok, André Fu Studio was tasked with the goal of reimagining the original flagship hotel’s 50-year heritage, delivering modern luxury with signature artistic perspective, and recreating the same spirit that made the original property a beloved destination for travellers from all over the world. The ultimate goal: reaffirm the hotel’s status as one of the city’s most recognised landmarks – and set a new benchmark for luxury accommodation in Bangkok.

“We started with a vision to create a hotel that seeks to celebrate Thai culture on the global stage,” said André, “and together with Dusit’s creative team, we dug deep into the history and heritage of the original property that opened in 1970 to define its spirit and determine how we could translate this into a contemporary new skyscraper with my personal language of ‘relaxed luxury.’ To me, this project captures a turning point for Thai hospitality.”

“The design narrative revolves around paying homage to the original hotel’s warmth and distinct character, while also offering something fresh and innovative. I have imagined a visual journey that progressively becomes more modern as guests ascend towards the hotel’s iconic spire. It is a layered celebration of Thai culture and design sensibilities, art and craftsmanship throughout each destination within the property.”

Ms Natapa Sriyuksiri, Managing Director – Dusit Estate and Group Creative Strategy, Dusit International, said, “The original Dusit Thani Bangkok was an integral part of the city’s identity. Our redevelopment was driven by a desire to honour this legacy while creating a space that resonates with today’s discerning travellers. We sought a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, echoing the spirit of the original hotel that opened in 1970 and reinterpreting its classic qualities through a modern lens. André Fu Studio’s meticulous attention to detail has brought this vision to life, from the bespoke furniture and lighting to the delicate embellishments that subtly reference the original property. The result is an extraordinary design-led experience that encapsulates the evolution of the Dusit Thani brand: a timeless commitment to Thai-inspired gracious hospitality, exceeding guest expectations, and enriching the communities we serve.”

The new Dusit Thani Bangkok echoes the spirit of the original hotel, which opened in 1970, and reinterprets its classic qualities through a modern lens.

A place to gather
The hotel’s unique design-led journey begins the moment the guest steps into the striking arrival lobby. Inspired by the artistry of traditional Thai pavilions, the triple-height lobby recreates the grand arrival experience of the original property and elevates it with a striking juxtaposition of returning signature elements – such as a lush waterfall garden featuring a tiered geometric composition and preserved beloved tropical trees that were first planted at the original hotel. A commissioned artwork mural by rising Thai artist Sakon Malee is prominently displayed to honour the hotel’s deep-rooted ties to the community, alongside traditional earthenware from Koh Kret – a small island in the Chao Phraya River known for its pottery traditions.

From an expressive dusty-golden hexagonal ceiling design inspired by lotus leaves to expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that bathe the space in natural light, this impressive space also subtly references Dusit Thani’s meaning as a ‘town in heaven.’ Freestanding bronze screens designed in collaboration with projecttSTUDIO and handcrafted by Dong Sculpture are garnished with intricate interwoven patterns to conjure a layered visual experience, evoking a dynamic sense of movement and ascension. André has also introduced a warm palette of oak panelling and antique bronze, juxtaposed with fresh accents of mauve, sage green, and teal blue. Custom-made street lamps that capture Thai architectural silhouettes also adorn the room.

“For the main lobby, our aim was to embrace the key concept of creating ‘a place where people converge’ and provide a new ‘living room’ for Bangkok’s society to gather in the city’s most prestigious location,’ said André. “On that note, an elegant bar crafted entirely in jade green marble stands prominently at the heart of the lounge to create a highly activated lobby experience, a tribute to the spirit of the original hotel.”

The main lobby’s expressive dusty-golden hexagonal ceiling design, inspired by lotus leaves, and freestanding bronze screens evoking a dynamic sense of movement and ascension, subly reflect Dusit Thani’s meaning as a ‘town in heaven’.

Two meticulously preserved antique pillars, brought back from the original hotel’s Benjarong restaurant, stand as captivating focal points directly opposite the bar. Adorned with precious hand-painted murals, they mark the transition threshold where guests enter an upward journey of discovery through the more intimate parts of the property, symbolising a gateway to the sky.

Left: Two beautifully preserved antique pillars, once part of the original hotel’s Benjarong restaurant and featuring intricate paintings by Paiboon Suwannakudt, a master of neo-traditional Thai mural art, grace the entrance to the hotel’s more intimate areas, offering a timeless connection to the past. Right: the hotel’s deep-rooted connection to the community is reflected in the vibrant mural by rising Thai artist Sakon Malee.

Making memories now
In addition to being a social hub, the reimagined Dusit Thani Bangkok is designed to serve as a backdrop to celebratory events. This is best exemplified by the 1,350 sq m Napalai Grand Ballroom – one of the largest ballrooms in Bangkok – which features a soaring eight-metre-high ceiling and an expansive 55-metre-wide panoramic window overlooking Lumpini Park. This elegant space seamlessly blends the hotel’s fresh aesthetics with the capital’s pulse, showcasing the stunning park and cityscape and the exciting events happening within.

“There are several nods to the original Dusit Thani Bangkok in this impressive space, such as a main portal frame referencing shapes from the original hotel’s renowned Napalai Ballroom, and vertical panels crafted with intricate mouldings that evoke the fluid silhouette of the original property’s Tiara rooftop,” said André. “Highly geometric and dramatic ceiling moulding charismatically captures the room’s unique sense of place, whilst 12 huge bespoke chandeliers referencing vintage veranda glass pendants infuse the room with a modern nostalgic twist.”

Exquisite rooms with a view
The guest rooms, starting at 50 sq m, blend traditional elegance with modernity. Each room boasts vast cantilevered picture frame windows that capture breathtaking, uninterrupted views of Lumpini Park, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the stunning skyline of Bangkok.

Offering breathtaking, uninterrupted views of Lumpini Park, each guest room features an expansive cantilevered picture frame window that invites guests to immerse themselves in the stunning skyline of Bangkok.

“The expansive four-metre-wide window bay in a singular glass sheet is the most distinctive feature of the guest rooms,” said André. “Framing uninterrupted views of the park, we have recreated the spirit of Thailand’s traditional sala asai – a place for travellers to rest and reflect – with elegant day beds that stretch the entire length of the cantilevered windows, allowing guests to seamlessly step into the landscape, luxuriate in comfort, and savour the unrivalled views.”

The guest rooms incorporate warm colour tones and a subtle reinterpretation of local artistry and craftsmanship.

Seamlessly blending the original hotel’s rich heritage with contemporary Thai aesthetics, the guest rooms incorporate warm colour tones and a subtle reinterpretation of local artistry and craftsmanship. “The idea was to make these rooms distinctively ‘Dusit Thani Bangkok,’ unlike any other luxury accommodation experience in the city,” said André.

The bathrooms exude a timeless elegance, with delicate embellishments that add a touch of luxury.

André has complemented each room’s harmonious palette of sage, celadon green, pale champagne, and gold, with warm oak panelling, evoking a feeling of intimacy and timeless elegance. Subtle curves on furnishings offer a modern interpretation of traditional Thai furniture. Delicate embellishments, such as intricate lattice panelling and handcrafted headboards threaded by local artisans, reference the murals in the original hotel.

The wellness experience
Located on level five of the hotel and nestled within a verdant environment of local herbs and flora, Devarana Wellness is a unique urban wellness concept that spans 1,045 sq m.

The wellness facilities include a 25-metre-long infinity pool overlooking the vast Lumpini Park, a fully equipped gym, lush indoor and outdoor lounge spaces for relaxation, a yoga studio, and a luxurious spa where guests are invited to unveil a world of purist aesthetics and sculptural spaces via a poetic tunnel crafted with a gable-inspired ceiling. Four single treatment rooms and a couples salon, each accompanied by its own outdoor bungalow, are garnished with ivory linen, beige limestone, hand plastering and timber to capture a spirit of mindful stillness.

A central meditation dome, resembling overlapping petals, offers an immersive and serene sanctuary. Its spiritual atmosphere connects guests to nature and grounds them in the holistic wellness experience.

Distinctive culinary venues
The hotel’s dining and drinking venues are equally captivating, with signature elements that imbue each space with its own distinctive character.

The Pavilion restaurant on the ground level is a striking gestalt of light, form, and composition. Conceived as a whimsical trial of three contemporary timber pavilions, this dining venue is a genuine celebration of tropical colours and the mystical atmosphere of the East. Each area is garnished with an eclectic array of intricate high-gloss lattice lacquer wall panels in deep yellow and sapphire blue.

At the Pavilion restaurant’s arrival pergola, a bespoke ceiling pendant with 85 glowing glass globes takes centre stage.

The Pavilion restaurant on the ground level is a striking gestalt of light, form, and composition.

At the arrival pergola, a bespoke ceiling pendant with 85 glowing glass globes takes centre stage within the octagonal structure. Adjoining this space is the Kitchen Chamber – a room dedicated to the dynamic energy of culinary arts – featuring a vast open kitchen. At the opposite end of the venue, the Waterfall Glasshouse stands beside the al fresco dining terrace, adorned with an array of hanging lanterns that appear to float. Views of the garden infuse the space with a sensuous tropical backdrop.

Speakeasy bar

The Pavilion restaurant also features a secret speakeasy bar – a journey to the unexpected where guests step into a cosy world of vintage charm. A mystical bohemian forest landscape mural by Studio Jew+ connects the relationship with nature, much akin to Dusit Thani’s philosophy, creating a mystical and enchanting atmosphere.

A mystical bohemian forest landscape mural by Studio Jew+ creates a mystical and enchanting atmosphere.

Contrasting the lush Pavilion restaurant, the Dusit Gourmet coffee shop and bakery offers a contemporary deli experience. The striking 12-metre-long deli counter features solid Italian marble and intricate bronze frames. A palette of mineral blue mosaic flooring and handmade terracotta tiles add a whimsical twist to the space.

Aside from the food and beverage experiences at the arrival floors of the hotel, a bold culinary journey of surprises will soon launch at the pinnacle of the property, including a triplex of elevated dining and event spaces designed by André Fu as a finale to this celebration of modern Thai hospitality.

A new landmark for Bangkok
Situated in the same prime location as the original Dusit Thani Bangkok, which graced the Bangkok skyline from 1970 – 2019, the highly anticipated, reimagined version of Dusit’s luxury flagship hotel sits at the heart of Dusit Central Park, a landmark mixed-use development also comprising ultra-luxury residences (Dusit Residences and Dusit Parkside), a state-of-the-art office tower, a high-end retail centre, and a 11,200 sq m Roof Park (all slated to open in 2025).

“Reimagining the original Dusit Thani Bangkok as part of Dusit Central Park has been a journey of exquisite curation and craftsmanship – a heartfelt celebration of Thai hospitality embodying the unique spirit of the original property,” said André. “Collaborating with Dusit’s visionary creative design team, led by Natapa Sriyuksiri, and working alongside talented local artisans has been an inspiration. Together, we’ve breathed new life into this beloved landmark, creating a timeless destination that will inspire and enchant generations to come.”

Natapa Sriyuksiri said, “The reimagining of Dusit Thani Bangkok is more than a rebuild; it’s a celebration of our heritage and a bold step into the future. Through meticulous attention to detail and a genuine embrace of traditional and modern Thai aesthetics, we’ve created a luxury space that honours our past while inviting new stories to unfold. Working with André Fu Studio has been extraordinary. Together, we’ve brought to life a new landmark that embodies the visionary spirit of our founder, Thanpuying Chanut Piyaoui – to be bold and do great things, to create things that never existed before, and to always be true to who we are – and we are delighted to welcome guests to experience this remarkable transformation.”
dusit.com

About Dusit Hotels and Resorts
Dusit Hotels and Resorts is the hotel arm of Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies. With a heartfelt belief and commitment to introducing Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to the world, Dusit Hotels and Resorts offers guests a uniquely special stay in high-style surroundings and a personalised approach to service. The group’s portfolio of hotels, resorts and luxury villas includes more than 300 properties operating under a total of eight brands (Devarana – Dusit Retreats, Dusit Thani, Dusit Suites, Dusit Collection, dusitD2, Dusit Princess, ASAI Hotels, and Elite Havens) across 18 countries worldwide.
dusit.com

About Dusit Thani Bangkok
The iconic Dusit Thani Bangkok reopens its doors to welcome guests once again following a captivating transformation. Presiding over Lumpini Park, the hotel redefines luxury with all park-view accommodations and sets the scene for unforgettable experiences with world-class dining and peerless event venues.

More than just a hotel, Dusit Thani Bangkok brings classic grandeur to life and invites discerning travellers to experience a vibrant blend of modern elegance and timeless charm inspired by Dusit’s world-renowned gracious hospitality.
dusit.com/dusitthani-bangkok

About André Fu Studio
André Fu Studio is an internationally acclaimed design studio in Hong Kong, founded by interior architect André Fu.

With a global collective of projects that span scales and typologies, the studio continuously bridges the gap between cultures, drawing as naturally on European principles of beauty as from Oriental qualities, traditions, and modernity to create experiences that exude Fu’s language of ‘relaxed luxury.’

His seemingly effortless creations range from a unique furniture collaboration with Louis Vuitton’s Objets Nomades collection to major hotels and restaurants around the world for leading brands including Villa La Coste in Provence, Hong Kong’s Upper House and the St Regis, The Berkeley London, Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto, as well as Dusit Thani Bangkok hotel.
andrefustudio.com