After decades of sitting idle, the old customs house on the banks of Chao Phraya River is finally getting a new lease of life. The 136-year-old building is getting the refresh it deserves as it transforms into The Langham Hotel, due to open in 2026.
Built in 1888, the Old Customs House was once used for royal events, including one to celebrate the return of King Rama V from his travels in Europe. The building was designed by architect Joachim Grassi in a neo-Palladian style, with teak floors, a grand central staircase and a four-storey corridor.
The Langham Hospitality Group (LHG), which has more than 30 Langham hotels around the world, is known for its work in preserving old buildings and turning them into luxury hotels. They have partnered with Rabbit Holdings for their first Bangkok project.
In parallel with the old Customs House, the Langham Hospitality Group is also restoring the old post office building. The hotel will offer 78 guest rooms. For dining, they are bringing in T'ang Court, a Cantonese restaurant from Hong Kong with three Michelin stars. The Langham wellness retreat, Chuan Spa, will also be available here.
This year alone, Bangkok has seen several new luxury developments, including Dusit Central Park; One Bangkok; Aman Nai Lert Residences Bangkok; Porsche Tower Design, which is selling condos starting from B500 million; and EA Gallery atop the Empire Tower, which is bringing Nobu restaurant to the city.
Although the rates for this new Bangkok property are yet to be published, prices at other Langham locations around the world range between B8,000 and B40,000 per night.