At Dusit Thani Bangkok, André Fu choreographs a visual ballet, fusing nostalgic opulence with sleek, contemporary grace

“We started with a vision to create a hotel that seeks to celebrate Thai culture on the global stage,” says André Fu, the internationally acclaimed interior architect behind the reimagined Dusit Thani Bangkok. In collaboration with Dusit International’s creative team, Fu sought to reinterpret the hotel’s 50-year heritage through his signature language of “relaxed luxury”, crafting an experience that feels both contemporary and timeless.

The challenge lay in balancing the hotel’s storied past with modern expectations — ensuring that every space evokes a sense of nostalgia while offering a seamless connection to the present.

“The design narrative revolves around paying homage to the original hotel’s warmth and distinct character while offering something fresh and innovative,” Fu explains. “I have imagined a visual journey that progressively becomes more modern as guests ascend towards the hotel’s iconic spire.”

A grand arrival 

The journey begins in the arrival lobby, a space that embodies Fu’s vision of “a place where people converge”. Inspired by traditional Thai pavilions, the triple-height lobby recreates the grandeur of the original property while introducing contemporary elements that elevate the experience.

A striking feature of the lobby is the series of freestanding bronze screens, designed in collaboration with projecttSTUDIO and handcrafted by Dong Sculpture. These intricately interwoven patterns, Fu notes, “evoke a dynamic sense of movement and a representation of visual ascension”, a subtle nod to the hotel’s name, which means “town in heaven”.

The grandeur of the space is further accentuated by expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the lobby with natural light. At the same time, a palette of oak, antique bronze, and muted jewel tones introduce a warm yet sophisticated ambience.

At the heart of the lobby stands a jade-green marble bar — an elegant social hub that serves as a tribute to the original hotel’s legacy. “Our aim was to create a new ‘living room’ for Bangkok’s society,” Fu explains.

Custom-made street lamps inspired by Thai architectural silhouettes and two antique pillars from the former Benjarong restaurant enhance the sense of continuity between past and present, serving as a reminder of the property’s rich history.

Tranquility and reflection 

For Fu, the design of the guest rooms was an opportunity to blend Thai heritage with contemporary comfort. The expansive 4m-wide cantilevered picture windows, offering breathtaking views of Lumpini Park, are a defining feature. “The idea was to recreate the spirit of Thailand’s traditional sala asai — a place for travellers to rest and reflect,” Fu shares.

Each room is an intimate retreat where traditional materials and modern aesthetics coexist harmoniously. Warm oak panelling, celadon green, and pale champagne tones create a soothing palette, complemented by delicate embellishments such as handcrafted headboards and intricate lattice panelling.

“For guests staying with us, whether just for one night or longer, I wholeheartedly recommend spending time in their room or suite, unwinding on the window-side daybed,” says Patty Lerdwittayaskul, director of rooms at Dusit Thani Bangkok.

“Picture yourself with a glass of sparkling wine or a cup of tea in hand, gazing out at the serene park views and Bangkok’s dynamic skyline.”

Beyond aesthetics, the rooms reflect Dusit Thani’s commitment to offering a deeply personal and immersive experience — one that bridges the outside world with the comforts within. 

A fitting ode to craftsmanship

Fu’s meticulous attention to detail throughout the property highlights Thailand’s rich artistic heritage while maintaining a contemporary touch. The Napalai Grand Ballroom, a 1,350 sq m venue with soaring 8m-high ceilings, captures the grandeur of its predecessor through elements such as the portal frame inspired by the original hotel’s iconic Napalai Ballroom and ceiling mouldings that echo the Tiara rooftop’s silhouette.

“There are several nods to the original Dusit Thani Bangkok in this impressive space,” Fu explains, emphasising the bespoke chandeliers referencing vintage veranda glass pendants. The ballroom is designed to host grand celebrations and intimate gatherings alike, offering a seamless blend of elegance and functionality.

Fu’s commitment to craftsmanship extends beyond the ballroom to intimate corners of the hotel, where traditional Thai artistry is showcased in intricate detailing. For example, the custom furniture reflects the curves and textures of Thai architecture, subtly reinterpreted through a contemporary lens.

Service as an extension of design  

For Dusit Thani Bangkok, the guest experience is as much about service as aesthetics. “We recognise that building a brand and solidifying our position as a luxury hotel is a journey that takes time and dedication,” says Lerdwittayaskul.

“What sets us apart is our ability to redefine and reinterpret luxury through the lens of our signature gracious Thai hospitality.”

This ethos is evident in the hotel’s attentive and intuitive service, which has garnered guests’ praise. “One of the most heartening pieces of feedback we received was regarding our team’s remarkable service DNA,” Lerdwittayaskul shares. “Guests observed that many of our guest-facing colleagues were young and energetic, often noting that their dedication to excellence stood out.”

Despite the challenges of assembling a new team, the hotel has successfully instilled a culture of warmth and excellence, reflecting the same commitment to gracious hospitality that made the original Dusit Thani a beloved landmark.

Culinary and wellness experiences  

The hotel’s rejuvenation extends beyond its interiors to its holistic guest offerings. Nestled within lush tropical greenery, the Devarana Wellness Spa offers a serene escape. It features a poetic tunnel crafted with a gable-inspired ceiling that guides guests into a world of mindful stillness. The 25m-long infinity pool overlooking Lumpini Park provides a tranquil contrast to the bustling city below.

Dining experiences at Dusit Thani Bangkok are equally curated to evoke a sense of place. The Pavilion restaurant, designed as a series of contemporary timber pavilions, celebrates Thailand’s vibrant colours and tropical essence through intricate high-gloss lattice lacquer wall panels in deep yellow and sapphire blue. A secret speakeasy bar within the restaurant adds an element of discovery, offering guests a hidden oasis of vintage charm.

Still, Fu acknowledges that the creative process was not without its challenges. “There was a substantial period during the early design process when travelling to Thailand was not permitted,” Fu recalls, “and we had to conduct many discussions via online methods. I would have wanted to gain back an extra day to engage with artisans, visit their workshops, and even linger longer in the original property.”

It is this dedication to craft and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence that breathe life into the reimagined Dusit Thani Bangkok. Every space tells a story — one of legacy, innovation, and a profound respect for Thai heritage.

Today, as guests enter the hotel, they find themselves immersed in an experience transcending time. The echoes of the past converge with contemporary design to create a sanctuary of gracious hospitality and enduring elegance.