Oriented on making people closer

British architectural firm Heatherwick Studio has unveiled its latest Asian endeavor: the Hatai hotel complex in Bangkok, Thailand. This distinctive development will feature two multi-tiered towers, their design reminiscent of traditional paper lanterns. The complex will house two hotels: Six Senses and Narai Hotel.

The project aims to establish a soft silhouette against the city's skyline. Additionally, a substantial public space is planned, offering protection from rain, lush greenery, and water features, all intended to "stimulate street life filled with curiosity and exploration." The studio seeks to forge a profound connection with Thailand's rich cultural and historical heritage, a quality it believes is often absent in the "strictness of many modern Bangkok buildings."

The Hatai project will span over 10,500 square meters in Bangkok's historic Silom district. The complex will encompass 300 guest rooms and extensive amenities, including a ballroom, a wellness center, and conference facilities. The buildings are designed to emanate an impressive glow at night.

Beneath the two towers, a unified 5,200-square-meter public space will be situated, complete with elevated pedestrian walkways. The architects envision this area as a "civic village" that will host an open-air market, a kindergarten, an event zone, and a plaza adorned with local flora.

The opening of the Hatai complex is slated for 2028. This will mark Heatherwick Studio's third unique structure in Asia. The studio previously completed the Azabudai Hills district in Tokyo in 2023 and unveiled a tree-like vertical park in Xi'an, China, in 2025.

ORIENT

Photo: Heatherwick Studio