Ba Hao Ba Hao Ba Hao Ba Hao Ba Hao Ba Hao

Originally, Soi Nana in Charoen Krung district was well known for its herbal pharmacy area. It is only recently that this area has become more appealing in a new way, emerging as one of the new interesting spots for Bangkokians. New galleries, bars, cafes, and hotels have sprung up, creating a unique mixture of the existing (past) and additional (present) elements of culture, environment, architecture, and soul. Bā Hào (⼋號, literally means No. 8), a 4-story bar and hotel located at No. 8 on the corner of Soi Nana, is one of the new elements integrated into this district.

When all the existing storage room walls that were blocking natural light and ventilation were removed, the building’s structure, space, and decoration appeared beautiful, despite its age and damage. The main approach to the design was to preserve the essence of this 70-year-old building while developing new elements to create the right chemistry between old and new features.

For the Chinese bar on the first floor, the placement of the bar and kitchen was the most important issue that affected the entire space. With Chinese influences in the district, the lighting and color tone of the space are mainly based on red, combined with wooden and marble furniture, while the blue terrazzo bar counter, booth seating, and counter in the restroom help balance the overall mood.

On the second floor, there is a co-living space that was initially designated as a room but was changed during the restoration process due to the potential of the space. The existing wooden floor creates a warm feeling, along with a set of vintage furniture from the collection of one of the partners of the place. This space has become a gathering area where people can relax and engage in various activities.

The third and fourth floors each have one room, each with its own character. On the third floor, the glass wall between the bedroom and the bathroom maximizes the potential of this green and brown room. On the fourth floor, a specifically located window opens up to the view of Wat Traimitr’s golden temple.

The co-living space and the two rooms on the second to fourth floors are named after the three roads that run towards the 22nd July Circle (Wongwian 22): “มิตรพันธ์” (Mit-tra-pun = Confederate), “ไมตรีจิตร” (Mai-tri-jit = Friendliness), and “สันติภาพ” (Sun-ti-pap = Peace), respectively.

With the same approach applied to the interior design, the facade of the building was designed to preserve most of the existing essence. The size and proportion of the windows are consistent with its neighbors, while the proportion of the building facade was treated to look three stories tall. This approach not only helps Bā Hào blend in with its neighbors but also respects the old history of the area.