Thai Silk & Jim Thompson’s House
Posted by bird in Bangkok Walker
Folks who love Thai silk or Thai architecture should not miss Jim Thompson’s House. Jim Thompson came to SE Asia during WW2 and soon found opportunities that would bring fame and wealth. Realising the potential of Thai silk, he almost single-handedly brought global fame to the art of Thai silk weaving. He was a lover of Thai architecture and travelled throughout Thailand to bring back items that he wanted for his dream house. Sometimes, houses were brought back plank by plank and rebuilt. Folks would not miss the european styled black & white marble tiles at the basement of the main galley - these were from a palace that was about to be torn down and he salvaged it. Jim Thompson disappeared in the highlands of the Cameron Highlands in Malaysia in 1967 and the house was eventually returned back to the Thai government under a trusteeship. You are not allowed to wander around on your own. Compulsory guided tours (in groups of different languages) were given for visitors and you will be guided from room to room, hall to hall. The house is tasteful designed and rich with architecture gems. Take your time to marvel at the beauty of Jim’s House and imagine yourself in his shoes. There is a cafe/restaurant for folks wanting a drink/or a meal and of course, you can’t really be in Jim’s House without taking a look (and buying) the product that he made famous, wouldn’t it? There is an in-house boutique selling products made from Thai silks as well as momentos for your visit.
Opening Hours : 09:00 to 17:00 everyday with the last Guided Tour at 16:30* Admission : Adult 100 baht; Students 50 baht
How to get there : From Siam Square, take Th Phra Ram I towards the west, and turn right at the 2nd alley. Go till the end and there you are, just before the canal
