The owners and developers of Siri Sala claimed it was love at first sight when they saw three rundown wooden stilt houses for sale amid the khlongs (canals) of Bangkok Noi. After purchasing the houses, the owners soon realised that straightforward renovation would not work. Instead, a series of artisans, architects and designers were charged with the task of rebuilding and maintaining as much of the traditional Thai spirit of the houses as possible, repurposing original timbers and features where feasible. The result is a magnificent riverside villa, sleeping up to 12 guests, ideal for large family and group gatherings.

The villa comprises three separate Thai houses, known as ‘ruen,’ which all share a courtyard. Ruen Bangkok Noi and Ruen Hor are one-bedroom houses, while Ruen Siri has four bedrooms. Expect modern Thai styling with copious use of warm woods, and hand painted murals, all stylishly embellished with traditional ornaments and artworks. Each bedroom suite includes climate control, Wi-Fi, fully stocked minibar, safety deposit box and bathrooms that feature ong and khunn (water jar and bucket) for traditional showering, as well as modern rain showers and free-standing bathtubs. The four-bedroomed Ruen Siri also has its own living room and dining space, and any spare bedrooms can be converted to a spa, games room or office, according to need.

Traditional Thai homes feature indoor/outdoor living and Siri Sala includes a spacious semi-outdoor living room, a stunning library showcasing antique furniture from the original houses, large dining room that can seat up to 22 guests at a table crafted from the original teak floorboards, and a modern kitchen. The grounds are a real feature of the property, full of lush vegetation, the courtyard includes two natural ponds and a fabulous 20m saltwater pool. Also in the grounds is the Ruen Deum, the Heritage House, reconstructed from the original timbers, creating an atmospheric lounge. 

Guests enjoy the services of a team of resident chefs who will create customised menus according to requests, whether that is for Thai classics, vegetarian and allergy-free dishes, or Western favourites, such as pastas and burgers.

Within the grounds is a small Thai spirit house, where guests are invited to make daily offerings of flowers, candles, food, and incense to bring good fortune and protection from the spirits. Siri Sala also offers experiences that include morning alms giving at the local temple Wat Suwanaram, the art of folding lotus flowers and Thai cooking classes. Thai massage, yoga and boxing are also on offer and the villa provides yoga mats and a small amount of gym equipment for personal use.