EN TH

The original pile wood foundations of Narai Hotel had been witnesses to Bangkok’s evolution, carrying the story of decades spent beneath the city.

Each piece was marked by time through colour variations, natural cracks, and unique imperfections etched into their surfaces. Rather than discarding these weathered pieces of architectural history, the Hatai team saw an opportunity to reimagine what this forgotten timber could become.

A philosophy of revival

This approach reflects Hatai’s broader philosophy that the future of Silom must flow from its rich past, resulting in a deep commitment to sustainability and heritage preservation. By intentionally reusing these materials, the project reduces waste while extending the lifecycle of existing resources. 

The story is deeper than one of sustainability however. The reclaimed wood represents a living bridge between the original Narai Hotel’s foundation and the new experiences that will unfold above. Guests will literally walk on the same timber that once supported travellers decades before, connecting past and present through the very materials beneath their feet.

The art of renewal

Transforming aged foundation timber into premium architectural elements requires specialised expertise. The Hatai team partnered with Champaca, a Bangkok-based studio renowned for crafting architectural and interior elements from reclaimed wood. Champaca specialises in sourcing and transforming salvaged timber, bringing out the raw beauty, history, and durability that makes each piece unique.

Through careful processing, each log is adapted for its new role while preserving the natural character that makes it irreplaceable. The collaboration ensures that these historic materials receive the craftsmanship they deserve as they transition from foundation to featured design element.

Where history lives on

The reclaimed timber will find new life throughout the development in carefully selected applications. Within Six Senses Bangkok, the wood will be used to create distinctive flooring in the arrival lobby, bar panelling in the lobby lounge, and cladding on select interior walls. It will also feature throughout the wider development, enriching retail environments, common areas, and walkway corridors where people naturally gather and pass through.

New Foundations

This thoughtful approach to material reuse exemplifies Hatai’s broader design philosophy, one that honours Bangkok’s architectural heritage while embracing a spirit of renewal. By giving new life to these historic timbers, the Lantern Quarter creates spaces where past and future coexist naturally.

In a city that’s constantly evolving, Hatai’s commitment to preserving and repurposing these materials offers a different approach to development — one where progress doesn’t mean forgetting where we came from, but rather carrying the best of our past forward into what comes next.