A Sanctuary Steeped in Story and Heritage
137 Pillars House Chiang Mai is rooted in rich Thai heritage dating back to the late 1800s. The hotel has been thoughtfully designed to offer guests an intimate, luxury boutique experience while embracing the charm of historical Chiang Mai. Every detail has been carefully considered to create personalised, one-of-a-kind stays in each of our comfort suites.
Built in the late 1800s as part of the Borneo Company headquarters, 137 Pillars House is a beautifully preserved teakwood residence that reflects the elegance and craftsmanship of its 19th‑century origins. What began as a simple escape to Chiang Mai soon became a deeper journey for the owners. A day spent exploring the city with a lively local broker led them to a striking black‑wooden house on stilts, hidden among towering trees. Its beauty and presence were immediate and unforgettable. As they uncovered its history and its ties to the Borneo Trading Company—once central to Thailand’s teak industry—they felt compelled to preserve this remarkable piece of heritage and share it with others.
In Lanna tradition, the stature of a home was often reflected in the number of pillars (sao) it stood upon. Curious visitors frequently asked why this remarkable house had no name. When a publisher sought to feature “the house with the most pillars,” then‑owner Jack Bain counted them—137 in total. An old map of the Wat Gate area also referred to it as “Baan 137 Sao,” meaning 137 Pillars House. The name has remained ever since.
Today, 137 Pillars House is a 30‑suite boutique hotel that honours its storied past while offering an intimate, contemporary experience. Restored with great respect for its original Colonial Lanna architecture, the property blends 19th‑century charm with modern comfort, creating a sanctuary that feels both timeless and personal. Through thoughtful restoration, curated storytelling, and heartfelt Thai hospitality, guests are invited to step into a living piece of history—one whose spirit continues to shape the design, identity, and narrative of 137 Pillars Hotels & Resorts.
The house as we discovered it at the outset of our journey to create 137 Pillars Hotels & Resorts
Our commitment is to make every stay memorable, to respect our communities, to protect our environment, and to inspire meaningful travel.