Inside André Fu’s reimagining of Dusit Thani Bangkok
The transformed Dusit Thani Bangkok has opened its doors, unveiling new interiors designed in collaboration with André Fu Studio.
The firm was tasked with reimagining the 50-year heritage of the flagship hotel, which is situated in the same location as the original Dusit Thani Bangkok.
“We started with a vision to create a hotel that seeks to celebrate Thai culture on the global stage,” says Fu. “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.”
He continues: “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.”
The design-led journey begins in the triple-height lobby, which is inspired by the artistry of traditional Thai pavilions. Signature elements of the space have been maintained, including a lush waterfall garden with a tiered geometric composition, and tropical trees that were first planted at the original hotel. A commissioned artwork mural by rising Thai artist Sakon Malee is displayed to honour the hotel’s ties to the community, alongside traditional earthenware from Koh Kret – a small island in the Chao Phraya River known for its pottery traditions. Other design details include a golden hexagonal ceiling design inspired by lotus leaves, and bronze screens designed in collaboration with ProjecttStudio and handcrafted by Dong Sculpture. Fu 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 create a place where people converge and provide a new ‘living room’ for Bangkok’s society to gather in the city’s most prestigious location,” says the designer. “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.”
Two meticulously preserved antique pillars, brought back from the original hotel’s Benjarong restaurant, stand as focal points directly opposite the bar. Adorned with hand-painted murals, they mark the point where guests enter an upward journey of discovery into the rest of the property.
Guestrooms blend traditional elegance with modernity, each featuring vast cantilevered windows that immerse guests in the city’s skyline. “The expansive four-metre-wide window bay in a singular glass sheet is the most distinctive feature of the guestrooms,” explains Fu. “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.”
Fu has complemented a colour palette of sage, celadon green, pale champagne and gold with warm oak panelling, evoking a timeless elegance. Subtle curves on furnishings meanwhile offer a modern interpretation of traditional Thai furniture, while intricate lattice panelling and handcrafted headboards threaded by local artisans reference the murals in the original hotel.
“The original Dusit Thani Bangkok was an integral part of the city’s identity,” says Natapa Sriyuksiri, Managing Director – Dusit Estate and Group Creative Strategy, Dusit International. “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.”
