UK-headquartered architect Heatherwick Studio has unveiled the design for “Hatai”, a mixed-use development in Bangkok’s Silom area to be styled as the city’s “Lantern Quarter”.
The buildings will take a form inspired by traditional Thai lanterns. A series of stacked forms will create a glowing silhouette in Bangkok’s skyline.
Hatai will have two hotels – a Six Senses and a Narai Hotel, with 300 rooms in total – plus a ballroom, conference areas and a wellness centre.
At ground level will be a plaza, restored canal, a shrine, open-air market, event spaces and nursery. 5,200-sq-m of public space will be created.
Thomas Heatherwick, Heatherwick Studio’s founder, said: “There’s a richness to Thailand’s culture and historic architecture, but the anonymous, blank severity of many so-called modern buildings in Bangkok does not speak to this at all.
“We wanted to do something that connects with the country’s heritage in a deeper way and builds detail, feeling and story back into the city.”
“We have the opportunity to create a major piece of public space – including rain protection, planting and water – all designed to encourage street-level life filled with curiosity and exploration.”
Hatai is due to open in late 2027.
- Subscribe here to get stories about construction around the world in your inbox three times a week
