Private villa Siri Sala is offering travellers a one-of-a-kind experience in Bangkok, blending luxury with local heritage away from the city’s skyscrapers.
Located in an area steeped in history, Siri Sala is a passion project by Filipino-born entrepreneur Irma Go and her Thai husband Kirati Thepsoparn. Go explained to LATTE at the recent Essence of Phuket show how she saw potential in what some might have considered a dilapidated remnant of old Bangkok.
She was captivated by the sight of traditional wooden houses perched on stilts along the city’s canals. “About 150 years ago, most homes were built on water to avoid flooding,” she explained. “But with urban development and the construction of roads, these houses started disappearing.”
During a boat ride with her husband in 2015, she spotted three such houses with a “for sale” sign. “I said, ‘We have to buy them,’” she recalled thinking. “Bangkok doesn’t have a townhouse by the river that offers a real sense of place.” This sparked her vision to create a space where history and modern comfort could coexist.
Despite his doubts, they proceeded with the investment. After consulting with architects, however, they learned that the houses were beyond repair due to constant flooding. “It became a much bigger project than I thought,” Go admitted.
Siri Sala is now comprised of three separate Thai houses which share a courtyard. Ruen Bangkok Noi and Ruen Hor are both one bedroom houses, while Ruen Siri has four bedrooms.
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The rebuild included preserving the essence of the original structures. Each room in the new villa features elements from the old wooden houses, such as doors and windows, giving guests a tangible link to the past.
The couple decided to reconstruct one of the houses as a Heritage House, which now serves as an event space with a speakeasy-style bar. Additional luxury touches were added, like a saltwater pool.
Their commitment to showcasing local culture is evident throughout. “Ninety-something percent of everything you see here is local,” Go said, emphasising the villa’s dedication to supporting Thai artisans and producers. From the furniture to the fabrics, the villa reflects Thailand’s rich cultural heritage. Even the drinks served at the villa use locally sourced ingredients.
In addition to its accommodation offering, Siri Sala has become a hub for the arts. It regularly hosts pop-up dinners with chefs from around the world and exhibits art, such as a digital project by British artist Susan Collins. “We want to support the community,” Go said.
Since opening three years ago, Siri Sala has attracted visitors from around the world, although Go is keen to see more Australian guests stay at the villa.
It is commissionable for travel agent bookings, which can be made directly with the property.
