The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts, a brand of hospitality giant Marriott International, has reopened The Athenee Hotel in Bangkok following an extensive renovation.

Formerly known as Plaza Athenee Bangkok, the hotel stands on the grounds of the Kandhavas Palace, the former royal residence of Princess Valaya Alongkorn until her death there in 1938.

Interior design firms Vekhin Interior and Bangkok Dec-Con have referenced this regal lineage, taking inspiration from Thai royal ceremonies, colour palettes, artwork and traditional design, while at the same time adding “a distinctly European flair”.

In addition to the refurbishment of common spaces and the hotel’s 374 guest rooms, The Athenee Hotel’s transformation includes a newly redesigned city lagoon-styled swimming pool area for leisure and relaxation, and a new bar and restaurant.

“The debut of our second hotel in Bangkok marks an important milestone for The Luxury Collection as it showcases our commitment to expanding our global portfolio and growing our footprint in Thailand,” said global brand director Mitzi Gaskins. “The restoration and reopening of The Athenee Hotel is another addition to The Luxury Collection’s portfolio of historic renovated properties around the world.”

The multi-million dollar project has been funded by Asset World Corporation, whose COO, Nishant Grover, said: “The Athenee Hotel has undergone a complete metamorphosis, while retaining all the elements that made it the most-loved hotel in Thai society.”