Nestled on the serene east bank of the River Ping, amidst the residential enclave of Wat Gate, lies the enchanting 137 Pillars House – a sanctuary of luxury offering a verdant escape in the pulsating heart of Chiang Mai. Here, in the historic haven of the ancient Lanna Capital, is the perfect base to explore.
At its core, the essence of 137 Pillars House revolves around the meticulously restored wooden headquarters of the Borneo Trading Company, a cherished relic spanning from 1889 to 1958. Today, the house serves as the soulful epicentre of the resort, housing a fusion of dining delights and bygone-era gentlemen’s club-style drinking. Below the house, the clever use of space is home to the resort’s small gymnasium alongside a museum that shares the history of the building, all utilising the pillar foundations of which it is named.
Echoing the ethos of eco-consciousness, the landscaping and trees that have stood tall since the days of the Trading Company, offer solace under the Thai sun, while a living wall envelops the 25-meter infinity pool, shrouding it in seclusion from the urban bustle beyond.
Greater Coucal birds can be heard through the canopy of the trees over breakfast and come nightfall, the croaks of resident frogs start. During the day it is the sound of gentle jazz melodies that take over from nature from noon till dusk accompanied by the whirl of sprinklers to keep the central croquet lawn in shape; all inviting guests to bask in the tranquillity of doing nothing at all.
Suites
There are 30 suites available in the home-style residential concept of 137 Pillars House. Our suite is number 30, also known as one of the William Bain Terrace Suites, which overlooks the historical homestead, infinity pool and feature garden wall from the upper floor.
The super king bedroom suite extends to a generous living room with a writing desk and couch (that converts to a king or twin bed). The airy vintage tiled balcony overlooks the tropical gardens with cane shades for privacy, a sturdy rocking chair and a plush day bed.
Beyond a large walk-in closet and expansive dressing area, the en-suite bathroom with dual washbasins includes a sunken bathtub overlooking tropical foliage, and the suite hosts separate indoor and outdoor garden showers.
Spanning an impressive 100 square meters, these suites are not just a place to stay but a destination in themselves – a perfect retreat for an extended sojourn in Chiang Mai.
Food and Drink
137 Pillars House evokes an old-world charm and elegance which is best experienced via its food and drink offerings. The House features the original Jack Bain’s Bar and Palette Restaurant, which serves Western cuisine, while a taste of Lanna and Thai cuisine can be experienced in the Dining Room.
Immediately behind the 137 Pillars House the Dining Room is the space to enjoy indoor or al fresco breakfast, lunch and dinner. With classic northern Thai dishes in addition to a range of Thai favourites as well as a great selection of seasonally inspired international items for lunch or dinner.
Palette Restaurant (picture above) is an intimate dining experience with 24 seats set in the old house with the works of local artists on show. The cuisine is farm-to-table inspired Western cuisine and is enjoyed with a live pianist who entertains in the background.
Jack Bain’s Bar is named and inspired after the last inhabitants of the house. Crafted Colonial and Asian-inspired cocktails are served in the space that has large soft leather sofas and is reminiscent of the golden era of European style Gentlemen’s Clubs.
Location
A one-minute walk out of the lobby and past the hotel’s Cycle Rickshaws and you’ll arrive at the riverfront where restaurants, bars, galleries and shops are waiting to be explored. There’s a lovely gallery-come-artist studio called ‘Elephant Parade’ where visitors are invited to paint a ceramic elephant with the money going towards elephant conservation. There are also limited artist editions to buy.
It doesn’t take long to walk to the old town or the night markets, or a short Tuk Tuk ride will get you there in minutes. Chiang Mai is home to lots of artisan makers so the quality of goods here can be excellent. Leather goods are especially well made and there are some great design and concept stores to check out.
To book at stay at 137 Pillars House click here.
