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Heatherwick Studio Announces Lantern-Inspired Hatai Development in Bangkok

Heatherwick Studio Announces Lantern-Inspired Hatai Development in Bangkok

Hypebeast5 days ago
Summary
Heatherwick Studiohas unveiled Hatai, its first project in Thailand — a mixed-use development inBangkok's Silom district that reimagines the site of the original Narai Hotel. Inspired by the delicate craftsmanship of traditional Thai lanterns, the design features a series of stacked, rounded forms that soften the city's skyline and evoke a sense of warmth and celebration. At the heart of the development are two hotels – Six Senses and a new Narai Hotel – offering over 300 rooms alongside a wellness center, ballroom and conference facilities.
The ground level of Hatai is conceived as a vibrant public village, designed to foster community engagement and street-level life. Spanning 5,200 square meters, the space includes a green canopied plaza with native planting, a restored canal, elevated walkways and amenities like a shrine, open-air market, nursery and event spaces. Heatherwick Studio's approach emphasizes openness and accessibility, aiming to create a meaningful urban intervention that blends heritage with contemporary needs.
Scheduled to open in 2028, Hatai reflects Heatherwick Studio's commitment to culturally resonant design and sustainable development. The project is expected to meet LEED and WELL Gold standards, incorporating biophilic elements, recycled materials and natural light strategies. By integrating traditional symbolism with modern architecture, Hatai offers a sculptural and soulful addition to Bangkok's evolving cityscape.
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Thailand warns of war with Cambodia as US, China urge calm
Thailand warns of war with Cambodia as US, China urge calm

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Thailand warns of war with Cambodia as US, China urge calm

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The embassy in Bangkok said in a statement that "we have consistently encouraged Thailand and Cambodia to resolve their differences peacefully in a manner that respects diplomatic obligations and norms." Thailand, a long-time Washington treaty ally, developed closer diplomatic relations with China during almost a decade of military-backed rule under previous Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-Ocha. The U.S., meanwhile, is the Southeast Asian nation's largest exports destination, accounting for about 18% of all Thai shipments and creating a trade surplus of $46 billion last year. But amid President Donald Trump's tariff war, Vietnam, Thailand and Indonesia are among Asian countries seeing the sharpest surge in Chinese imports as the higher duties upend regional trade, according to Citigroup Inc. China is Thailand's largest trading partner with bilateral business estimated at $129 billion last year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Beijing shipped goods worth $81 billion to Thailand. 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