The next time we’re in Bangkok, we certainly need to check out The Explorer Suite by Jim Thompson. Here’s the official news:
Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok is delighted to introduce the newest addition to its range of exquisite accommodations – The Explorer Suite by Jim Thompson. Opening on November 1, 2010, the new suite will offer yet another luxurious home away from home in one of the city’s most renowned hotels.
Formerly the General Manager’s Penthouse overlooking the Royal Bangkok Sports Club on Rajadamri Road, The Explorer Suite by Jim Thompson has been designed to reflect its namesake’s creative entrepreneurship and heritage, while paying homage to his commitment to local industries and arts.
Best known for introducing the bright jewel tones and dramatic colour combinations now associated with Thai silk worldwide, Jim Thompson worked with local Thai weavers to revitalise the cottage industry of hand-woven silk, which had for centuries been a household craft in Thailand, but which was in danger of dying out. Jim Thompson also built a superb collection of Buddhist and secular art, not only from Thailand but also from Burma, Cambodia and Laos, and made it his personal mission to preserve traditional arts and architecture. His high profile disappearance in 1967 added to his mystique.
Rather than replicate his famous home with teak paneling and furniture, the new suite was created to reflect a summer home, one that Jim Thompson himself might have worked on as a young architect. A colonial atmosphere, with tongue and groove ceilings, painted panelled walls and polished teak floors provides a backdrop for a collection of furniture, fabrics and artworks drawing upon influences both traditional and contemporary. Unique pieces have been selected from antique markets, and the suite also features elements from the new range of Jim Thompson furniture designed by world-renowned architect Ed Tuttle. Fabrics include some of the earliest silks as well as the latest linen prints, demonstrating a history of Jim Thompson textiles.
Designed by Jeffrey Wilkes of LTW Designworks, Kuala Lumpur, the Explorer Suite by Jim Thompson includes two bedrooms, one with king size and one with double beds, 2 1/2 bathrooms, and a large living/dining room with study overlooking the golf course of the Royal Bangkok Sports Club, a green oasis in the heart of the bustling city.
The new central electronic lighting and A/C panel provides a single control point for the entire suite. A 42-inch Plasma Screen TV and DVD/CD entertainment centre are discreetly incorporated into the design.
The overall direction of The Explorer Suite by Jim Thompson is clean and contemporary, with a nod towards Thai heritage, and captures the adventurous spirit of the man himself, without compromising comfort or luxury.