The Jim Thompson House- A Captivating Story On Thai Silk

The founder of the world renowned Thai Silk Company

, Jim Thompson arrived in Thailand during the 2nd world war and it was during this time that he developed a fondness for the country and its people. In 1946 after his discharge from the military he returned to Thailand where he spent the next 22 years. The Jim Thompson House is the home he created whilst in Thailand.

On his return to Bangkok he focused his attention to Thai Silk that had always fascinated him and he did much to revive the dying industry. He had a natural flair for design and colour which he used in the silk he got woven to his specifications in order to find American buyers for his merchandise. It was a success and in 1948 Thompson established a shop as a silk distributor. Thompsons silk industry reached remarkable heights of recognition one of which was Broadway-it was used in Rodgers and Hammersteins musical comedy The King and I. In the early 1960s whilst on a state visit to America, her majesty Queen Sirikit of Thailand wore a number of designer outfits that featured Thompsons Silks.

With a thriving silk business this entrepreneur did much to design and furnish his home, the house consists of a complex of six traditional Thai-style houses, the teak structures were purchased from several owners and brought from various parts of Thailand. The construction of the house was completed in 1959.Together with its inspiring Thai architecture; Thompson decorated and furnished his house with exquisite antiques predominantly of Asian origin. His collection can be broadly categorised into Sculptures, Paintings, Porcelain and other collectible items. It is a veritable treasure trove and a visitor can spend an entire day taking in the beauty and timelessness of these carefully selected pieces.

In 1967 whilst on holiday with some friends in the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia, Thompson mysteriously disappeared. Even though an extensive search was done nothing was found relating to his disappearance. For a visitor to Bangkok the Jim Thompson House is definitely a must see and can be easily visited by staying at a serviced apartment Bangkok proudly calls its own. The central business district area is also home to a variety of great Sathorn apartments one of which is the Somerset Park Suanplu.With its comfort and security of a private serviced residence it will keep you connected with all Bangkok has to offer as its minutes away from both Skytrain and subway stations.

by: Pushpitha Wijesinghe

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