We go to Chiang Mai to soak in the essence of Lanna – the ancient kingdom which once covered much of today’s Northern Thailand, Laos and Myanmar. Gorgeous intricate temples are a prominent feature of the Lanna style, but it is also seen in traditional houses, which speak of a unique countryside high-life. It is a beautiful aesthetic, always open to the outside, with generous verandas and balconies looking out to the street or natural environment, while also inviting nature into lovely gardens and ponds.
SIMPLICITY SUSTAINABILITY TRADITION
Immersed in tranquil natural surroundings on the banks of the Ping river, Raya Heritage’s serene atmosphere makes it the perfect base for discovering the unique charms of the region at an unhurried pace. Inspired by the spirit of Lanna life which still lingers in Chiang Mai, the hotel offers a clean, contemporary take on traditional Thai design, with beautifully curated, one-of-a-kind furniture pieces, and locally sourced crafts.
The hotel 38 suites feature comfortable outdoor terrace areas and many of them have private pools.
Raya Heritage offers a range of culinary options at the resort’s signature dining outlets: Khu Khao, Laan Cha Tea Terrace, Baan Ta Lounge & Lawn as well as in-suite room service. The emphasis is always on fresh locally sourced ingredients and a blend of local and international recipes.
DESIGN
The hotel is nestled on the banks of the Ping River in low-impact, three-story structures designed by noted Thai architect Boonlert Hemvijitraphan.
Terracotta tiles, hipped roof gables, vintage hardwood columns and beams, and mulberry-paper screens evoke traditional northern Thai design.
Natural fabrics such as cotton, hemp and linen hail from weaving cooperatives in villages that are among the last anywhere in Thailand to employ age-old methods of spinning and weaving. Only rich, natural dyes – such as authentic indigo sourced from the leaves of local Indigofera tinctoria – were used to colour the cloth.
Working with local artisans goes hand in hand with the philosophy of the hotel which intends to bring positive impact to the community and environment, thinking long term, and believing a business is only successful when employees and society benefit alongside it. This spirit of giving extends to the hotel group setting up and contributing to several foundations supporting impoverished communities across Thailand.
Raya Heritage’s design team worked closely with local weavers, potters, woodcarvers and other artisans in small towns and village communities around the north of Thailand for two years prior to opening, and their work is showcased throughout the resort with sustainability as a key element of the overall design.
