Akyra Manor Chiang Mai submitted by AHMS The Collection, has been shortlisted for the Hotel Under 50 Rooms Award (Asia-Pacific) in the International Hotel & Property Awards 2015.
A contemporary urban retreat, the all-suite akyra Manor gives Chiang Mai an invigorating shot of design and style, juxtaposed against the heritage of its location. The original brief to designer Chaw Chih Wen was to re-invent hospitality in Chiang Mai through akyra Manor. In an area best known for its mountainous surroundings, the hotel was to breathe new life into the downtown area of the city by providing a contemporary urban space for entertaining and relaxing: creating a new ‘hot-spot’ for the city.
It was also important to establish a landmark building that would draw attention and create discussion. The challenge was to make a bold statement, whilst reimagining and embracing the strong rooted Chiang Mai culture and heritage. Any development would also need to continue the sustainability drive of AHMS The Collection and its deep founded respect for nature.
According to design visionary Chih Wen, a key aspect of the design was the inspiration to build each of the 30 suites around its own courtyard: a ‘room within a room’ concept designed to bring the outdoors inside while not sacrificing privacy. This is central to the AHMS The Collection concept of Outdoor Living In, and sees an outdoor bathtub as the centerpiece of each courtyard. The unique and striking design of akyra Manor pays homage to the history of the ‘Rose of the North’: the outer shell has been created to capture the essence of the city’s crumbling ancient wall. The sculptural design of the building is an art installation in its own right, reflecting its setting in the vibrant Nimmanhaemin art district. The hotel will be a real hub for creative minds, acting as a ‘living gallery’ to showcase rotating exhibitions of local artists.
Inside, the bold and edgy sophistication of the 30 guest suites provide a sanctuary from the buzz of Thailand’s northern capital. The 23 akyra Deluxe suites offer a spacious 610 sq ft of living space, while seven decadent akyra Manor Suites at 1050 sq ft will give guests a stylish expanse of space to unwind.
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