The Oriental, Bangkok, consistently voted one of the world’s finest hotels, this month celebrates the completion of an extensive restoration of its renowned Authors’ and Garden Wings. The multi-million dollar enhancement is the largest renovation project ever to be carried out on the two buildings since they were built.

Celebrating its 128th anniversary in 2003, Bangkok’s Grand Dame has undergone a splendid transformation, revitalising one of Thailand’s unique historical buildings, whilst still preserving the hotel’s rich heritage. The enhancement includes the restoration of its legendary Authors’ Lounge, Authors’ Suites, Le Normandie Restaurant and Regency Rooms. This final stage of restoration marks the completion of the entire hotel renovation over the past six years. This has included the renovation of all 393 rooms and suites, the hotel’s restaurants, bar and extensive resort facilities.

As a monument to Bangkok’s legendary past, The Oriental, Bangkok’s Authors’ Wing – the regular haunt of literary and musical legends Joseph Conrad, Somerset Maugham, Noel Coward and James Michener - has taken an exuberant new life, whilst still retaining its opulence and exotic Thai ambience.

The new Authors’ Terrace was created by enclosing the verandah of the building facing the river with French doors. This inviting tropical space, with air-conditioned comfort, focuses onto the hotel’s lush garden. In the cool season, the doors can be opened, to allow easy access for garden parties.

Changes to preserve and enhance the hotel’s décor have been made to the Authors’ Lounge and Regency Rooms, areas frequently used for special gala functions. A charming Victorian atmosphere has been maintained in the Author’s Lounge, which features turn-of-the-century style wicker furniture with hand-painted fabrics while elegant cream-coloured marble was used to brighten the renovated adjoining shopping gallery.

The Bangkok-based design firm (Pure Design) sought to create a memorable and luxurious atmosphere in each of the 48 guestrooms in the Garden Wing. The rooms were given new floor-to-ceiling windows to maximize unobstructed views of the garden and river. Lustrous earth-tone silk curtains and upholstery, individually hand-woven by Pure Design, complement the panoramic exterior views and the hotel’s understated elegance. Thai room accents and decorative effects, adding a harmonious touch to the décor, were individually crafted in Thailand. Other new in-room facilities include digitally controlled bedside panels, high-speed/broadband internet access, and state-of-the-art Bose Lifestyle system hi-fi entertainment centre with CD/DVD player.

The Regency Rooms have been decorated with a classic damask pattern woven in Thai silk. Adding to their new elegance are hand-cut crystal chandeliers from Austria and luxurious hand-woven carpets to complement the rich marble floors.

In announcing the completion of the historic renovation, hotel general manager for 36 years, Kurt Wachtveitl said the restoration marked a significant period in the hotel’s history. “A graceful lady has been beautifully restored. We want our guests to continue to experience the magic of The Oriental and this final stage of our renovation project reinforces our commitment to our guests; we value the importance of upholding our rich tradition, inherent sense of place and our desire to provide an cocoon of warmth and sheer luxury”, he said.