p landscape creates outdoor sanctuary for 137 pillars house in chiang mai

p landscape creates outdoor sanctuary for 137 pillars house in chiang mai
all images courtesy of p landscape

thai studio p landscape has created an outdoor sanctuary for ‘137 pillars house’, a 30-suite boutique hotel located on the banks of chiang mai’s mae ping river in northern thailand. the design was based on the site’s cultural and architectural heritage, reflecting distinct features of the colonial lanna – an ancient northern kingdom – through motifs, construction materials and techniques, recreating the atmosphere of this period. the layout of the various landscape elements take the character of a traditional village, inviting guests to interact with one another.

view showing the colonial lanna architectural details and large existing trees at the hotel entrance

the existing historic 19th century architecture and surrounding native trees at the center of the property have been carefully preserved. the project weaves a narrative through the planting and material palette as the guests travel back in time.

vertical planting screens protect views into the private guest suites

due to the neglect of the site and frequent flooding, the structural base of the the main teak house had started to disintegrate with humidity and pest infestation. in transforming the building, it was raised on stilts to allow for a clear area underneath for water permeation (through gravel beds). this also helped it to maintain air flow and ventilation, easing the humid conditions that were harmful to the structure.

various terraces create niches for outdoor seating within the shaded central gardens

a large existing banyan tree frames the central space

tree preservation and protection were taken into consideration by highlighting the roots of the banyan tree

the swimming pool offers privacy and serenity with a 15-meter green wall

the large green wall was created as a vertical screen, protecting views from surrounding developments

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