A Legacy Since 1889
Built in 1889, The House on Sathorn has witnessed over a century of Bangkok's history. Originally a private residence, the building later served as an embassy before becoming the dining and entertainment destination it is today. Explore the history of this iconic landmark, from its origins during the reign of King Rama V to its transformation into The House on Sathorn.
The History of Sathorn
1889-1926
The House on Sathorn's first era, “History of Sathorn” dates back to 1889 when it was built as a private residence for Luang Sathorn Rajayukta, a wealthy Chinese-originated businessman who received a noble title from King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) who assigned him to procure construction suppliers for Bang Pa-in Royal Summer Palace. He also pioneered the digging of Sathorn canal to improve transportation inside the Siamese capital.
Hotel Royal
1926-1948
The second era, “Hotel Royal,” began after Luang Sathorn Rajayukta’s passing, when the residence was inherited by Luang Chitchamnong, who married his eldest daughter, Cham. Luang Chitchamnong invested in a rice mill, a common business among wealthy Thai-Chinese families. However, the venture was unsuccessful and is believed to have led to his bankruptcy in 1909.
In 1923, Italian grande dame Madame Adele Staro rented the mansion and established Hotel Royal, one of Bangkok’s most luxurious hotels, as described by Singapore’s The Straits Times. Following her departure, the hotel was sold to a syndicate in 1925 and renamed Hotel Thailand in 1926.
Embassy Row
1948-1999
The third era, “Embassy Row,” began when The House on Sathorn became Thailand’s first Russian Embassy, operating from 1948 to 1999 and witnessing historic events, including the Cold War. Relations between Siam and Russia date back to the early 1900s, when Thai aristocrats, including King Chulalongkorn’s son, H.R.H. Prince Chakrabongse, studied in St. Petersburg and Moscow. In 1941, Siam and the Soviet Union established diplomatic relations, followed by an agreement on the Exchange of Diplomatic Missions in 1947. This led the Soviet government to secure a 50-year lease on the neoclassical mansion, establishing its first diplomatic mission in Thailand.
The Present
1999-Today
In the fourth and current era, “The Present,” The House on Sathorn stands out as an eclectic venue. Located directly adjacent to W Bangkok, the building and its grounds feature Paii, a signature restaurant, and Bar Sathorn, a timeless destination bar. Additional spaces include Upstairs, The Conservatory, Hospitality Suites, and The Loft, available for meetings and social gatherings.
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1888
Yom Bisalayaputr purchased land in the Silom area, developed canals and roads, and later sold the surrounding land. In recognition of his contributions, King Rama V granted him the title “Luang Sathorn Rajayutka.” It is believed that he constructed the mansion in 1889.
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1895
Luang Sathorn Rajayutka passed away from cholera at the age of 38. The property was inherited by his eldest daughter, Cham, who later married Luang Chitrchumnongvanich, a Hainanese businessman who took over the family businesses..
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1916
In 1916, Luang Chitrchumnongvanich sold the property to the King's private holdings. The mansion was later transferred to Chaophraya Ramrakhop in 1925 before returning to the King's private holdings in 1926. It subsequently became Hotel Royal under Madame A. Staro.
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1948
The mansion served as the Soviet Union's diplomatic mission in Thailand, later becoming the Russian Embassy, for over 50 years.
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2001
The Department of Fine Arts officially registered the mansion as a national archaeological site.
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2003
The property was leased to North Sathorn Hotel Co., Ltd. (W Bangkok), which began restoration work in consultation with the Department of Fine Arts.
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2015
The House on Sathorn officially opened as part of W Bangkok in 2015. Today, the restored mansion features Paii, Bar Sathorn, and spaces for private events and social gatherings.