The fine craftsmanship and innovative design of the East have long been admired, and Thailand - together with Indonesia and Bali - have taken the lead with beautifully hand-crafted furniture and decorative items. Along with that, d-cor trends have increasingly been favoring Asian design and products; not only for its beauty, craftsmanship and because it is made from natural products, but also as a result of the feng shui phenomena.
The wide range of traditional furniture is not where the train stops though, as exquisite contemporary furniture and decorative accessories like lighting, bathroom fittings and flooring have seen the light in recent years. Boutique-style furniture and home d-cor outlets are in abundance, and most major malls have an entire floor or large section dedicated entirely to furniture and decor, notably the likes of the Emporium, Siam Paragon, and Siam Discovery (for the best of the best), and along Sukhumvit Road (between Phrom Pong and Thong Lo BTS stations).
A highlight is the innovative use and transformation of natural materials such as bamboo, rattan, teakwood, leather and water hyacinth into fabulous and functional contemporary pieces with world-renowned ingenuity of Thai craftsmanship. Intricately detailed carvings from wood and stone are big favourites too.
Other places worth mentioning are OTOP outlets and massive furniture and home decoration fairs, which are held regularly by Thailand's Department of Export Promotion (DEP). Prices vary as does workmanship, but great bargains are there to be had if you have patience and take some time to compare what's available.
Don't fret if your purchases can't fit in the overhead compartment, are fragile or if you might exceed baggage (weight) restrictions. Most shops offer a shipping service - and if they don't, it's pretty easy to find a reputable shipping agent in Bangkok. The cost of shipping has also become much more affordable and reliable - goods take between three to four weeks to reach virtually any destination in the world. Your shipping agent will also be able to consult you regarding import duties in your country.
Now, where to find what...
Traditional Furniture
Uniquely Thai furniture abound at Chatuchak Weekend Market and Suan Lum Night Bazaar. For antique and collector's items, Rivercity is a must. Note that export permits are required for some rare (or very old) items, but the store-owners will advise you accordingly.
Contemporary Furniture
The creativity of Thai people is second to none. Many emerging local designers are constantly making names for themselves on the international arena. Have a look at the furniture and decor floors / sections of the Emporium, Siam Paragon, and Siam Discovery (for the best of the best), and along Sukhumvit Road (between Phrom Pong and Thong Lo BTS stations). For a completely different take on modern furniture, you can find copies of the work of many famous furniture designers at Suan Lum Night Bazaar.
Outdoor / Garden Furniture
Adorn your garden with style and Thailand's signature teakwood products, which can be found at Chatuchak Weekend Market and Suan Lum Night Bazaar.
Office Furniture
Chain stores like HomePro and Office Depot have branches throughout the city. You can expect a wide variety of office furniture at reasonable prices.
Home Decor
Splendid wood and stone carvings, woven products, silk items, soft furnishings, drapes, curtains, fabulous home lighting and the likes can be found in Chatuchak Weekend Market, Suan Lum Night Bazaar and major shopping stores like the Emporium, Siam Paragon, Siam Discovery and independent outlets along Sukhumvit Road.
Cheap Furniture
For really cheap furniture, MBK Centre (National Stadium skytrain station) has one whole floor dedicated to furniture shops. Here you can expect mostly acrylics, plastic and mass-manufactured items, but some handcrafted pieces can be found too.
(Photo 1, 2, and 4 courtesy of Panta, Siam Discovery and Siam Paragon) |
