Latest news with #JimThompson
Forbes
a day ago
- Business
- Forbes
Is Quiet Luxury Over? Top Designer André Fu Believes It's Here To Stay
A calming, luxurious suite at Dusit Thani Bangkok To say interior architect André Fu is in demand is quite the understatement. In the past year alone, his eponymous André Fu Studio (AFSO) had a hand in four headline projects: The Emory in London, the city's first all-suite hotel; Dusit Thani Bangkok, a reinvention of a historic flagship property; Capella Taipei, styled as a modern mansion and the eighth opening of the award-winning hospitality group; and Waldorf Astoria Osaka, the luxury brand's first foray in Japan. So while fashion has become disillusioned with the quiet luxury aesthetic, Fu's popularity is testament to the power of elegant restraint. Known for his East-meets-West aesthetic and a calming yet textured palette, his worldly approach is far from 'boring beige'—he creates spaces with warmth, character and sophistication in spades. We speak to the lauded interior architect and founder of André Fu Living, on his timely yet timeless designs, his creative process and what's next. Plume is the elevated lobby bar at Capella Taipei You often describe your style as 'relaxed luxury'. What would you say are the ingredients of the André Fu style? Perhaps it is my approach to design—it is never about capturing a particular trend of style. I would typically immerse myself in walking around the site, conducting engaging conversations with the locals and conjuring the narrative for the project. This serves as the backbone for the project to evolve and develop, but it is always about bringing everyone back to the original vision and being truthful to it. Your projects span new builds and historic spaces. Do you approach them differently? Each hotel takes years to realise so whenever I accept a new project, I need to convince myself that there is something unique that I want to tell. This mindset allows me to see each project as a way to capture a new side of my aesthetic world. Andre Fu used Jim Thompson Thai silk and handmade ceramic tiles at the Dusit Thani Bangkok For the Dusit Thani Bangkok, you were able to weave a lot of the hotel's history into the space. Walk us through the creative process: It was about paying homage to the original hotel's distinct character, while also offering something fresh and innovative. I imagined a visual journey to celebrate Thai culture and design sensibilities, art and craftsmanship throughout each destination within the property. I adopted a vast variety of local materials, including Jim Thompson Thai silk and handmade ceramic tiles to celebrate the local artisan offerings, and juxtaposed them with European fabrics and stones. Palette wise, one may notice an expansive use of exotic tropical colors to celebrate the sense of place. One of the key highlights in the project can be found in the main lobby: multiple freestanding bronze screens, designed in collaboration with Bangkok-based projecttSTUDIO. This handcrafted sculpture has intricate interwoven patterns to conjure a layered visual experience, evoking a dynamic sense of movement and ascension. The level of intricacy for the scale we have dreamt up is highly ambitious. The stunning Peacock Alley at Waldorf Astoria Osaka From post-pandemic recovery to economic uncertainty and ongoing wars, the world seems more chaotic. Do you think this has changed how many of us view hotels? I think hotels are an ultimate expression of lifestyle—it ought to elevate one's senses on a 360-degree level. Guests are also seeking for each hotel to have a point of view and a story to tell, akin to reflecting on their own personal values. On that note, it perhaps explains why I have always challenged myself with coming up with a particular vision and narrative for each project. Sometimes it is about the brand that I'm working with, sometimes it's about revolving around the context of the hotel, or everything in between. What would your dream holiday look like? My bucket list at present includes a trip to Brasilia to admire the works of Oscar Niemeyer. Every summer, I also take a few days to return to Villa La Coste—one of my favorite projects nestled in Aix-en-Provence to immerse myself in its world of art, architecture and wine culture. Lastly, can you share future plans that you're personally excited about? Other than some key addresses and hotels in the making, my next step involves taking my own brand, André Fu Living, outside of Asia.
Toronto Sun
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Toronto Sun
‘The White Lotus' creator Mike White is coming back to ‘Survivor'
Published May 28, 2025 • 2 minute read Creator and director Mike White attends an intimate soiree hosted by Jim Thompson celebrating the brand and "The White Lotus" at Tony Duquette's Dawnridge Estate on April 24, 2025 in Beverly Hills, Calif. Photo by Amanda Edwards / Getty Images Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page. Mike White seems to love an island getaway – the filmmaker and creator behind the HBO drama 'The White Lotus' is headed back to 'Survivor' for the show's 50th season. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors Don't have an account? Create Account White was among the 24 all-star cast members announced Wednesday. The season will feature previous contestants, including Jenna Lewis-Dougherty, who appeared on the show's first season in 2000, all competing for a $1 million prize. 'In between writing and directing seasons of 'The White Lotus,' Mike White is back,' 'Survivor' host Jeff Probst said. 'Survivor,' which has been credited with changing the landscape of reality television, tosses a group of contestants into a remote location where they are separated into tribes who have to build shelter and live with minimal resources. Contestants also compete in mental and physical challenges, but much of the competition is social. Their fate is in the hands of their fellow competitors, who vote each week on who should be voted out of the game. Your noon-hour look at what's happening in Toronto and beyond. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Please try again This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. White previously appeared on Season 37 in 2018, titled 'David vs. Goliath.' The filmmaker lasted until Day 39, where he faced the final tribal council before losing out to Nick Wilson (who is now a Kentucky state lawmaker). White also competed on CBS' 'The Amazing Race' in 2009 and 2011 with his father, Mel White. After working on a slew of projects in the 2010s, including 'The Emoji Movie,' 'Pitch Perfect 3,' and the TV series 'Enlightened,' White developed 'The White Lotus,' which debuted in 2021 on HBO. The hit drama, which recently completed its third season, follows wealthy guests and the staff at fictional luxury resorts where murder, mayhem and lorazepam are all on the table. White has said that his experiences on 'Survivor' paved the way for 'The White Lotus.' He has even cast previous 'Survivor' contestants – like Alec Merlino and Angelina Keeley (who is also coming back to 'Survivor' for Season 50) – for cameos on the show. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. ''Survivor' is not that dissimilar, which is a lot of times just people kind of kvetching about who's tending the fire or they're hangry because they haven't had anything to eat,' he told NPR in 2022 about the connections between the two shows. 'But then the music is making it feel like this is going to end up bad for somebody. And then you have these transitions of sharks in the water. And I was like, we do that in 'White Lotus.'' White also referenced the show when accepting an award for 'White Lotus' at the 2022 Emmys. 'On 'Survivor,' the way to stay in the game is you lower your threat level,' he said. 'And it's like, now I feel like I've raised my threat level. And I just want to stay in the game. Awards are great, I love writing, I love doing what I do. Don't come for me. Don't vote me off the island, please!' White will have his next chance to survive being voted off the island in spring 2026, when the show is expected to air on CBS and stream on Paramount Plus. 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Yahoo
12-05-2025
- Yahoo
8 ways to find calm in Thailand's larger-than-life capital city
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK). Bangkok may have a reputation as one of the world's biggest concrete jungles, but in between the neon-lit streets, rooftop bars and crowded markets there are some glorious pockets of calm. The city's network of canals help create breathing space among the tuk-tuk packed neighbourhoods, and there's a surprising amount of green space in the city's environs — accessible by boat, bike or on foot. Here are eight of our favourite hideaways. One of several plush hotels lining the Chao Phraya River, the Riva Arun is noteworthy for its peaceful, top-floor terrace restaurant, Above Riva. You can ease into the day with breakfast or settle in for sunset cocktails, watching boats crisscross the river. The dinner menu goes big on both Thai and European dishes with a twist — such as duck confit green curry or fettuccine with a tom yum goong (hot and sour Thai soup) sauce. You'll need to dedicate a little more time — either a half or full day — to visit this artificial island known as Bangkok's 'green lung'. Book a bike tour from the city, which starts with a boat ride before you pedal through 6.2sq miles of mangroves. Tours typically pass through Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park and Botanical Garden and past the small villages and markets that dot the canals. With its tranquil gardens and canalside setting, the elegant former home of American Jim Thompson, who helped to transform the Thai silk industry, is about as peaceful as it gets. Take a walk through the Thai teakwood buildings to learn about the artefacts, fabrics and art inside, before wandering through the gardens. Leave time for an iced coffee at the cafe afterwards. Local farmers still practise traditional coconut harvesting at Bang Prathun in southwest Bangkok, one of the city's last remaining coconut orchards. You can visit independently, but booking a trip with a local guide or as part of a community tour will give you a better understanding of the local way of life and the traditional methods used in the orchards. You'll also have the chance to try fresh coconut products and family recipes. Also known as Ban Silapin, this centuries-old, traditional Thai-style wooden house and gallery is located in the Thonburi area, right on the canal. It's a fascinating escape from the more contemporary side of the city, where traditional shows are performed using intricate puppets, with plotlines from Thai folklore. Paintings, masks and puppets line the walls and there's a small cafe selling iced coffee and tea to help you cool off. Galleries often offer respite in frantic cities, and MOCA (the Museum of Contemporary Art) Bangkok is a perfect example. It's calm, quiet and cool — quite literally, as the aircon will provide some relief from the sticky city. You're not just here for the atmosphere, of course, but for the five floors of permanent and rotating exhibitions of Thai modern art. While weekday mornings are the quietest, you could combine your trip here with frenetic Chatuchak market, a 10-minute drive away, which is at its liveliest on Saturdays and Sundays. Hop on an express boat on the Chao Phraya River and get off at Memorial Bridge Pier. From there it's a short walk to Suan Somdet Ya (Princess Mother Memorial Park), where you can learn about where Princess Srinagarindra grew up. She was the mother of Thailand's ninth and longest-serving king, Bhumibol Adulyadej (1946-2016). Take a wander through the large garden, pause at her statue and then head for lunch at My Grandparent's House, a cafe on the water. You'll have your fill of markets and street food in Bangkok, but if you find the noise and chaos a little overstimulating, Talad Phlu in Thonburi is one of the most popular with locals and least hectic (although don't expect silence). There's a big Chinese community and it feels untouched by tourism, with stalls selling cheap dishes made roadside. Seek out crispy pork with rice and khanom buang (Thai crispy pancakes). It's easy to reach on the BTS Skytrain, and great for lunch or dinner. Published in the May 2025 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK).To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).
National Geographic
12-05-2025
- National Geographic
8 ways to find calm in Thailand's larger-than-life capital city
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK). Bangkok may have a reputation as one of the world's biggest concrete jungles, but in between the neon-lit streets, rooftop bars and crowded markets there are some glorious pockets of calm. The city's network of canals help create breathing space among the tuk-tuk packed neighbourhoods, and there's a surprising amount of green space in the city's environs — accessible by boat, bike or on foot. Here are eight of our favourite hideaways. 1. Above Riva One of several plush hotels lining the Chao Phraya River, the Riva Arun is noteworthy for its peaceful, top-floor terrace restaurant, Above Riva. You can ease into the day with breakfast or settle in for sunset cocktails, watching boats crisscross the river. The dinner menu goes big on both Thai and European dishes with a twist — such as duck confit green curry or fettuccine with a tom yum goong (hot and sour Thai soup) sauce. 2. Bang Kachao You'll need to dedicate a little more time — either a half or full day — to visit this artificial island known as Bangkok's 'green lung'. Book a bike tour from the city, which starts with a boat ride before you pedal through 6.2sq miles of mangroves. Tours typically pass through Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park and Botanical Garden and past the small villages and markets that dot the canals. At the rooftop bar of the Above Riva hotel, you can ease into the day with breakfast or settle in for sunset cocktails, watching boats crisscross the river. Photograph by Mark Parren Taylor 3. Jim Thompson House Museum With its tranquil gardens and canalside setting, the elegant former home of American Jim Thompson, who helped to transform the Thai silk industry, is about as peaceful as it gets. Take a walk through the Thai teakwood buildings to learn about the artefacts, fabrics and art inside, before wandering through the gardens. Leave time for an iced coffee at the cafe afterwards. 4. Bang Prathun coconut community Local farmers still practise traditional coconut harvesting at Bang Prathun in southwest Bangkok, one of the city's last remaining coconut orchards. You can visit independently, but booking a trip with a local guide or as part of a community tour will give you a better understanding of the local way of life and the traditional methods used in the orchards. You'll also have the chance to try fresh coconut products and family recipes. 5. Baan Silapin Also known as Ban Silapin, this centuries-old, traditional Thai-style wooden house and gallery is located in the Thonburi area, right on the canal. It's a fascinating escape from the more contemporary side of the city, where traditional shows are performed using intricate puppets, with plotlines from Thai folklore. Paintings, masks and puppets line the walls and there's a small cafe selling iced coffee and tea to help you cool off. 6. MOCA Bangkok Galleries often offer respite in frantic cities, and MOCA (the Museum of Contemporary Art) Bangkok is a perfect example. It's calm, quiet and cool — quite literally, as the aircon will provide some relief from the sticky city. You're not just here for the atmosphere, of course, but for the five floors of permanent and rotating exhibitions of Thai modern art. While weekday mornings are the quietest, you could combine your trip here with frenetic Chatuchak market, a 10-minute drive away, which is at its liveliest on Saturdays and Sundays. At Suan Somdet Ya (Princess Mother Memorial Park), visitors can learn about Princess Srinagarindra, the mother of Thailand's ninth and longest-serving king, Bhumibol Adulyadej (1946-2016). Photograph by Mark Parren Taylor 7. Suan Somdet Ya Hop on an express boat on the Chao Phraya River and get off at Memorial Bridge Pier. From there it's a short walk to Suan Somdet Ya (Princess Mother Memorial Park), where you can learn about where Princess Srinagarindra grew up. She was the mother of Thailand's ninth and longest-serving king, Bhumibol Adulyadej (1946-2016). Take a wander through the large garden, pause at her statue and then head for lunch at My Grandparent's House, a cafe on the water. 8. Talad Phlu market You'll have your fill of markets and street food in Bangkok, but if you find the noise and chaos a little overstimulating, Talad Phlu in Thonburi is one of the most popular with locals and least hectic (although don't expect silence). There's a big Chinese community and it feels untouched by tourism, with stalls selling cheap dishes made roadside. Seek out crispy pork with rice and khanom buang (Thai crispy pancakes). It's easy to reach on the BTS Skytrain, and great for lunch or dinner. Getting there & around British Airways flies direct from Heathrow to Bangkok several times a week. Thai Airways flies direct from Heathrow to Bangkok twice daily. Other carriers, including Qatar, Emirates and Finnair, offer one-stop flights via their hubs. Average flight time: 11.5h. It's possible to explore certain neighbourhoods in Bangkok on foot, but to get around you'll want to hop in a Grab (similar to Uber), tuk-tuk, the MRT train or the BTS Skytrain. Both train systems are efficient and simple to navigate. You can buy tickets at the station or put money on a prepaid card. There are also commuter boats across the Chao Phraya. When to go Bangkok is a hot and humid city year-round, with temperatures in the high 20Cs up to the high 30Cs. Much of the rain is during September and October and the most humid months are April, May, September and October, but you'll feel the heat no matter when you go. You're best off planning your trip to Bangkok around the rest of your Thailand itinerary. The beach regions of Phuket, Krabi and Koh Lanta, for example, are best from November to March when rain is minimal; for Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, travel March to October. Where to stay 137 Pillars & Suites. Thonglor neighbourhood. From 5,515 THB (£127). More info: Rough Guide to Thailand. £16.99 How to do it: Inside Asia has a five-night Bangkok cultural adventure from £437 per person, including three-star accommodation with breakfast, airport transfers, some private guiding and a full-day solar boat tour of the city's khlongs. Excludes flights. Bangkok can also be included on longer itineraries incorporating Thailand's islands. This story was created with the support of InsideAsia. Published in the May 2025 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK). To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).
The Age
07-05-2025
- The Age
This Thai island airport may be my all-time favourite
Check-in There's a queue at check-in, but it only takes 10 or so minutes before we're at the desk. After check-in we're directed to a section of the airport with a large screen and are instructed to wait five minutes in case our bag is shown on the screen. My checked bag makes an appearance, and then a minute later the screen shows a hand reaching down to remove it. Bags move in and out of the square like a game of hokey pokey. I'm thoroughly confused. What does this mean? The signage doesn't make it clear, so I ask a security officer. He directs me to the airport baggage inquiry section, where I have to watch another screen. After a few minutes waiting – my bag doesn't appear – I'm allowed to progress to security. It's only when I'm seated on the aircraft and I see my bag being loaded through the window that I'm reassured it will be coming home with me. Happily, the Koh Samui effect means I'm bemused but mostly unbothered by the experience. Security A few steps from check-in, there is a single luggage screening machine but no queue. Sadly, my small bag doesn't make the grade as I've forgotten to remove my sunscreen. Despite it only holding a quarter of a bottle of lotion, the security staff member is firm. The cream is dumped in the bin, and I head to departures. Food + drink For such a small airport, Koh Samui has an impressive range of food and drink offerings from Thai to Japanese, Indian and Western food plus coffee, tea and juice bars all with the airport's signature indoor-outdoor design. Retail therapy Perhaps the airport is too small to attract international brand name labels, but in any case, it's refreshing to see local brands on display. The most familiar is a Jim Thompson store for last-minute Thai silk clothing, homewares and accessories. A duty-free store, jewellery and clothing boutiques and local souvenir kiosks join the row of stores on the way to the domestic departure lounge, a beautiful, high-ceilinged timber pavilion resembling a tree-house. Passing time There's free Wi-Fi, but instead of scrolling, order a freshly squeezed juice or an ice-cold beer and take advantage of the shaded outdoor bean bags and deck chairs. Just don't forget to board your flight. The verdict Despite its quirks, this airport knows how to keep you in the holiday zone. It might just be my all-time favourite. Our rating out of five ★★★★
