Heatherwick Studio has unveiled the design for Hatai, its first ever project in Thailand – a new public space and two hotels in the heart of the Silom area in Bangkok.

Located on the historic site of the original Narai Hotel, Hatai will introduce warmth and unmistakable Thai character to this busy business district by creating a new ‘Lantern Quarter’.

Inspired by the delicate craftsmanship of traditional Thai lanterns, the design features a series of stacked, glowing forms that bring softness and soul to the city skyline. At the centre of the project, two hotels – Six Senses and Narai Hotel – will offer guests over 300 rooms, a wellness centre, ballroom and conference facilities.

Below, the ground level area is designed as a public village with a green canopied plaza featuring native planting. A restored canal will flow through the public realm offering a moment of calm and quiet in the busy city. A shrine, an open-air market, event spaces and nursery will invite visitors working or simply discovering the area.

Thomas Heatherwick, founder and design director at Heatherwick Studio, said the studio was drawn to the project for its cultural heritage and possibility to add a space for everyone to Bangkok’s urban landscape.

“There’s a richness to Thailand’s culture and historic architecture, but the anonymous, blank severity of many so-called modern buildings in Bangkok does not speak to this at all.  We wanted to do something that connects with the country’s heritage in a deeper way and builds detail, feeling and story back into the city.”

Heatherwick said the studio was excited to design a project that “gives back to the street,” with 5,200 square metres of new public space, including elevated walkways.

“We’ve designed a series of lanterns stacked on top of one another, collectively forming a much softer silhouette in the skyline, and we have the opportunity to create a major piece of public space – including rain protection, planting and water – all designed to encourage street-level life filled with curiosity and exploration.”

Hatai is Heatherwick Studio’s first project in Thailand and is scheduled to open in late 2027.