187 Ari Townhouse

This complete refurbishment transforms an existing Bangkok townhouse into a contemporary family home while preserving the character and spatial logic of the original building.

The house was stripped back to its bare shell, while the principal room configuration and distinctive split-level layout were retained. With the staircase positioned at the centre of the house, each flight connects half-levels, creating a sequence of interconnected spaces. This configuration results in a generous one-and-a-half-storey entrance hall and continues all the way to a rooftop terrace arranged across two levels.

On the ground floor, the house was extended towards the rear to create a spacious new kitchen and dining area—the social heart of the home. Frameless skylights above both spaces bring daylight deep into the plan and frame changing views of the sky almost like a James Turrell-inspired light installation. Polished concrete flooring connects the entrance, dining and kitchen areas, while the original timber floors in the bedrooms were carefully retained and restored.

Custom-built furniture is integrated throughout the house. The master bedroom features a large window overlooking the rear extension together with a walk-in wardrobe, while each of the two children’s bedrooms incorporates a built-in window bench surrounded by storage.

The rooftop was transformed into an extension of the living space. Large new roof structures provide shade and protection from Bangkok’s climate, making outdoor living possible throughout more of the year. The lower terrace accommodates the laundry and service functions, while the upper level becomes an open-air lounge with 360-degree views across the Ari neighbourhood.

At the front of the house, a new sliding garage gate and a dedicated garden with artificial turf create a practical outdoor area for the owners and their dog. The original Art Deco-inspired metal fence was retained and integrated into the new design.

New double-glazed windows improve the building envelope, while the original façade ornaments were preserved and emphasized through a two-tone colour scheme. The result balances old and new—retaining the recognizable character of the townhouse while adapting its spaces, comfort and functionality for contemporary family life.