Temples, tuk tuk rides, street food, night markets, river cruises—there are certain things that come to mind when we think of Thailand’s capital. There’s so much more waiting to be discovered in Bangkok. In recent years, the city has experienced a cultural renaissance of sorts. Here are some less-traveled locales, all with a design-forward lens.
High Expectations
King Power Mahanakhon is a mirrored skyscraper (Bangkok’s second tallest) that appears almost pixelated in design. The Observation Deck offers unparalleled 360-degree views of the city, all from 78 floors up. And as long as you’re not afraid of heights—step onto The Glass Tray for unobstructed views of the skyline, through the floor beneath your feet. This one should be on your bucket list.
There’s nothing like the view from King Power Mahanakhon’s Rooftop Bar at sunset.
Paradise Found
Just because Bangkok has a reputation as a concrete jungle, doesn’t mean you can’t still find ways to get in touch with nature. Many tourists find their way to Lumpini Park, but there are other options you might not have considered.
Visit Patom Café, where the natural beauty brand’s belief in organic living extends from the ingredients in their products to the dishes in the glass-walled eatery. Set in a lush garden, it’s a minimalist oasis within Bangkok’s Thonglor neighborhood. From their coconut hair mask to the lemongrass tangerine hand wash, everything is grown organically. This outpost offers everything from traditional Thai desserts to cold-pressed juices to artisan handicrafts.
Patom Café gives new meaning to the phrase “urban jungle”. Photo Credit: Ketsiree Wongwan.
To see a completely different side to Bangkok, leave the skyscrapers behind and enter something else entirely. Only accessible by boat, Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park in Bang Kachao is like an island getaway. A tropical paradise of jungle greenery, it’s thought of as the lungs of the city. Take a walk or bike ride through the palm-lined pathways and get your fix of the outdoors, all within the confines of the city.
Sweet Treats
Pastel colors and geometric shapes make up the saccharine structure of this dessert bar. From the winding crystalline staircase to the warm glow of rose gold lighting, its design is sugar visualized. Upstairs is a space for workshops to learn how to make your own sweet treats. The fact that SHUGAA offers delicious French desserts is icing on the cake.
A setting that’s as picture-perfect as the desserts at SHUGAA. Photo Credit: F Sections.
With two locations in Bangkok, House of Eden is a millennial pink paradise. The restaurant offers Thai fusion cuisine in a space that envelops you in peach tones. Try the matcha chocolate lava cake or the strawberry shake for dessert.
You’re not dreaming, you’re at House of Eden. Photo Credit: Light Addict Studio.
If you’re in need of something to wash down those desserts, head to Rabbit Hole. This industrial chic space tucked away in the Thonglor district is a destination for inventive drinks. Organized by flavor profile—from savory to fragrant to refreshing—cocktails are elevated to an art form here.
Uncommon Spaces
With different zones dedicated to varying purposes, The Commons is all about building community. This architecturally stunning destination isn’t a mall, it’s a “a gathering ground for quality producers who take pride in what they do”. The Village contains everything from a vintage store to a florist to a cocktail bar. When the weather’s nice, catch a sunset DJ set on the rooftop balcony and lawn. As far as dining options, The Market is home to food stalls offering flavors from around the world— Neapolitan pizzas, Mexican dishes, poke bowls, Hakata-style ramen, and more.
There’s nothing common about The Commons. Photo Credit: Ketsiree Wongwan.
Stroll the stacks at Open House, a welcoming space within the Central Embassy building complex where you can get lost in a book. The highly-curated bookstore places an emphasis on Asian art and culture, featuring a double-height library wall. Under a canopy of leaves painted onto the ceiling, the shop encourages browsing with seating available throughout.
Book lovers, you’re in luck at Open House. Photo Credit: Ketsiree Wongwan. Courtesy of Klein Dytham Architecture.
