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Emerging from the landscape like oversized traditional lanterns, Hatai is a visually distinctive development featuring a pair of towers. Heatherwick Studio conceived the project to accommodate two hotels and aims to bring new vibrancy to the city’s skyline.
Architectural Inspiration Rooted in Thai Tradition
Located in Bangkok’s Silom district, Hatai evokes memories of the studio’s earlier project at 515 West 18th Street, with a design that draws inspiration from Thai lanterns through its tiered architectural forms. Although the team hasn’t revealed the exact height of the buildings, they present them as mid- or low-rise rather than high-rises.Together, they’ll offer more than 300 hotel rooms, as well as facilities like a wellness center, a ballroom, and conference areas.
“Thailand has such a rich cultural and architectural history, yet much of Bangkok’s modern architecture feels impersonal and stark,” explains Thomas Heatherwick, founder of the studio. “Our goal was to reconnect with the country’s cultural roots in a meaningful way—bringing texture, emotion, and narrative back into the urban environment.”
A Softer Silhouette and a Vibrant Public Space
He adds, “We envisioned a vertical arrangement of lantern-like structures, producing a softer silhouette in the skyline. At the same time, we have the chance to create a significant public space—featuring shelter from rain, lush greenery, and water elements—to encourage vibrant street-level activity filled with wonder and discovery.”
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The designers envision the base of the development as a community-oriented public zone, incorporating a revitalized canal, an outdoor market, and elevated pedestrian pathways.
Aiming for Sustainability and Green Innovation
Although many specifics remain undisclosed, the design team is actively developing Hatai to meet LEED sustainability standards. Some of the proposed eco-friendly strategies include using recycled and locally sourced materials, optimizing daylight and solar protection, and recycling greywater for the cooling systems.
Heatherwick Studio is launching its first project in Thailand with Hatai, which is set to open in 2028. It continues the firm’s tradition of unconventional architecture, following recent standout projects like the Xi’an Tree and Azabudai Hills.
Read the original article on: New Atlas
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