Guided by Nature: Sustainable Design
© Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok
At one point in time, three magnificent trees held court over the area between Tonson and Langsuan now known as Sindhorn Village. For over 100 years, these freshwater mangrove trees grew and flourished along with its environs. Sustaining its neighbours, from the flora and fauna to the burgeoning human developments, this trio provided shade and cleansing air as Bangkok grew into a bustling metropolis around it. Yet, they maintained their positions as nature’s stalwarts, treasured as the neighbourhood’s guardians, even as technology and concrete advanced.
When the area was to converted into a luxury hotel, the sustainable architects recognised these immeasurable treasures and ensured they maintained their cherished places, designing the grounds so that they could be replanted and continue to thrive, enriching the Chevaa Garden and all the surroundings.
Now, these three guardians create a deep-rooted link from the Sindhorn Kempinski to the networks of gardens and parks flourishing throughout Bangkok. Visitors can wander from the Chevaa Garden surrounded by the verdancy of tree-lined Ton Son to Lumphini Park, Bangkok’s first public park that is almost 100 years old. Envisioned as a World’s Fair type location to showcase Thai culture and innovation, this 40-acre royal parkland was gifted to the people in 1925 and is still a haven for city dwellers seeking a natural reprieve. Nature’s escape continues as a skywalk links Sindhorn Kempinski through Lumphini Park to Benjakitti Forest Park, cultivated from reclaimed industrial space into a vast space blossoming with flora, nourishing the city with its greenery and abundance.
A Sustainable Vision
The Healing Hotel boasts a sustainable design that melds with the gardens, undulating as if flowing with the sway of surrounding leaves and branches. The muted brown exteriors further blend the building into the environment, leading to an expansive lobby filled with natural lighting from almost every angle. The sustainable design allows for air and light to flow up and through the building, making the most of nature’s energy to save on lighting and air conditioning while creating a sublime atmosphere at every level.
The architects continued with their attentiveness to resources and sustainable design with such touches as tripled-layer glass that not only offers beautiful wall-to-ceiling views, but also insulates the building from noise and heat. This allows for energy savings while creating sound-proof accommodations for further guest comfort. All these sustainable design practices have culminated in international recognition and global certification by LEED and EarthCheck, confirming the hotels sustainability vision.
Awareness and Responsibility
Guests can fully enjoy the luxuries in every room and suite knowing that every possible effort in sustainable architecture has been integrated, including resource-saving fixtures, LED lighting, and eco-friendly paper water cartons and straws. Those who wish to actively contribute to environmental conservation can participate in the Green Artifact program, opting out of daily linen or towel replacements.
Every restaurant and food outlet avoids single- use plastics and sources free-range eggs and chicken as well as locally grown, organic produce for their ingredients. This includes showcasing Bokaew and Baan Khunmaeruam coffee from Chiang Mai, 100% Arabica coffee cultivated and handpicked by the indigenous Pakakayo hill-tribe people. Sindhorn Kempinski also supports the local community through fund-raising and volunteering campaigns to aid those in need and to promote responsible practices.
Healing Travel
Thailand has a history and culture steeped in artistry and innovation, benefiting from the bounties of its natural surroundings while advancing into a well-developed society on the global stage. Since its foundation as Siam in 1350, visitors from near and far marvelled at the Kingdom’s harmonious balance with the environment. And so can you.
Learn here more about the Sindhorn Kempisnki Bangkok.