In Chiang Mai, 137 Pillars House occupies a teak wood residence built in the 1880s, the former headquarters of the Borneo Company (sometimes referred to as the "East Borneo Company") and residence of Louis T. Leonowens, whose name is borne today by one of the suites. Restored as a boutique hotel, the property retains its original architecture, blending traditional Thai style with British colonial influences.

Why choose 137 Pillars House

The principal appeal of this accommodation lies in its historical significance. The main house, built from aged teak, has retained its natural colour; certain extensions have been repainted white. The entrance hall, positioned over a reflecting pool, displays a collection of photographs tracing the property's history and that of the Borneo Company. This is a hotel for travellers drawn to heritage and architectural character rather than standardised resort complexes.

The establishment comprises 30 suites, a fine-dining restaurant, a spa, and a swimming pool, set within a park planted with tropical trees away from the bustle of the old city.

Atmosphere and architecture

The teak wood architecture remains central to the experience. High ceilings, carved motifs, verandas, vintage photographs hung on walls: together they compose an intimate atmosphere, inherited from an era when the house served as a residence for a British executive in the late 19th century. The tropical gardens surrounding the main building extend this ambiance, and water—from the entrance hall pool to the landscaped swimming area—plays an important role in the composition of the spaces.

The suites

All rooms are suites. Furniture crafted from wood by artisans, carefully chosen fabrics, and quality cushions form the common decorative identity. Each suite includes:

• a sleeping area with either a king-size bed or twin beds depending on the room,
• a sitting area,
• a private outdoor space (veranda or courtyard),
• a spacious bathroom, equipped with a Victorian bathtub in select units.

The suites are distributed between the main residence and an annexe building, the latter available for rental in its entirety by families or groups. Ground-floor suites open onto a private courtyard; upper-floor suites, such as the William Bain Terrace, offer expansive verandas with unobstructed views. The Louis T. Leonowens suite, the most iconic, bears the name of the property's former occupant.

Dining and wellness

• Palette — fine-dining restaurant set in traditional décor.
• Jack Bain's Bar — artisanal cocktail bar with a vintage-inspired aesthetic, named after William "Jack" Bain, one of the historical partners.
• Afternoon tea — served in the tropical gardens or within the main house, with a selection of signature teas and sweet and savoury offerings.
• Nitra Spa — wellness centre offering a range of treatments.
• Swimming pool bordered by a living wall, fitness room, and guided yoga sessions.

Location

The hotel is situated in the residential Wat Gate neighbourhood, on the east bank of the Ping River. It is a quiet area, set back from the walled old city yet well connected to it. Count roughly ten minutes by car to reach the historic centre (variable depending on traffic). Chiang Mai's international airport is approximately 20–25 minutes by car away.

What to see nearby

• Wat Gate Karam — the neighbourhood temple, accompanied by a small local museum.
• Ping River — walks along the riverside, with markets and riverside restaurants.
• Chiang Mai Night Bazaar — accessible on foot via the Iron Bridge.
• Walled old city — concentration of temples (Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang) a short drive away.
• Doi Suthep — mountain temple, approximately 30–40 minutes by car.

Chiang Mai, founded over 700 years ago at an altitude of 316 metres, is home to nearly 300 temples and serves as an ideal base for exploring northern Thailand.

Planning your stay

To incorporate 137 Pillars House into a wider itinerary across the country, consult our Thailand journeys. We can combine your stay with other distinctive properties such as De Lanna Hotel in Chiang Mai, or Shanghai Mansion in Bangkok for an urban stopover.