Shimmering Steel Facade Wraps Vela be Siam Hotel in the Heart of Bangkok
In the bustling heart of Siam Square in Bangkok, the Vela be Siam Hotel stands out as a striking architectural addition that blends Thai tradition with a bold, contemporary spirit. Designed by ASWA, the project merges craftsmanship rooted in heritage with innovative materials, creating a distinctive presence in the urban landscape.
Design Inspired by Tradition
The hotel’s front facade is draped in shimmering stainless-steel chains that reflect light and reinterpret the Pun-Lom an ornate wooden gable board once found on traditional Thai houses. The chains also echo the mosquito netting that used to hang over beds, offering a subtle nod to local cultural memory.
Vibrant Colors and Lively Interiors
- Main Lobby: A double-height space anchored by an orange, pebble-shaped reception desk set against a vivid green backdrop, injecting an immediate burst of energy.
- Shared Spaces: On the second floor, a bold yellow-and-black zone serves as a flexible area for working, dining, or relaxing, with an open view of the lobby below.
- Pool Bar: Tucked at the rear of the building, surrounded by lush greenery and soothing water features, it offers guests a tranquil escape from the city’s pace.
Color-Coded Navigation
Each floor adopts its own signature color, making wayfinding intuitive while adding a playful touch. Even the railings follow the same color scheme. As guests approach their rooms, the palette becomes softer, creating a sense of calm while still keeping playful surprises like colorful bathroom tiles.
Project Summary
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Name | Vela be Siam Hotel |
| Location | Bangkok, Thailand |
| Architect | ASWA – Architectural Studio of Work – Aholic |
| Total Area | 2,500 m² |
| Notable Features | Stainless-steel chain facade, color-coded floors, fusion of heritage and modern design |
An Immersive Architectural Experience
The Vela be Siam Hotel offers more than a place to stay it’s a vibrant, design-rich environment where local heritage meets contemporary creativity. Every detail invites guests to experience Bangkok’s energy while enjoying the comfort of thoughtfully designed spaces.
✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight
This article examines the Vela be Siam Hotel as an architectural exercise in merging Thai cultural identity with contemporary design language. The images reveal a shimmering steel facade wrapped in chain links, paired with interiors saturated in bold colors and dynamic spatial arrangements. While visually compelling, the discussion overlooks material sustainability and the project’s integration within its urban surroundings. Critically, it prompts reflection on whether visual impact outweighs contextual depth. Nevertheless, the hotel stands as a notable example of design strategies that celebrate guest experience while bridging heritage and modernity.
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