Riva Arun Bangkok, a popular hotel in the Thai capital, is currently undergoing a major refurbishment. The project is under the direction of contemporary New York architect and designer Stephen Odell who wants the hotel to capture Chino-colonialism with a modern twist when it reopens.
The property was originally a trading post for brown sugar before being turned into a 25-room boutique hotel. It will feature clean cream tones and subtle green accents which are a tribute to Wat Arun, Bangkok’s Temple of Dawn. Located across from the river from the hotel, the temple is very noticeable if you are travelling on the Chao Phraya River. The iconic pagoda, which dates back to the time of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, has recently underwent a series of repairs in which the site was covered by scaffolding.
The hotel will boast Chinese geometric features including prominent carved wooden panelling in the lobby and restaurant and intricate borders of the bedroom mirrors and vanity stool.
The hotel is located in the Rattanakosin district, one of Bangkok’s most traditional enclaves. Above Riva, the rooftop restaurant and bar, will allow guests to see Wat Arun in all its glory as well as provide views of Bangkok’s most essential tourist attractions. Wat Pho, Temple of the Reclining Buddha, and the neighbouring Grand Palace will be within sight while guest rooms have been arranged to also offer views of the iconic Thai landmarks.
The land in the district the hotel is found in is protected by the government which forbids any high-rise condos from being built here. Developments are restricted to 4 stories with a 5th floor rooftop, which means the hotel’s spectacular views won’t be disappearing anytime soon.
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