Jim Thompson House Museum

""You are now in the Thai home of Jim Thompson, an American who was born in Greenville, Delaware, in 1906. A practicing architect prior to World War II, he volunteered for service in the U.S. Army, campaigned in Europe and was later sent to Asia. however, the war ended before he saw action. He was sent to Bangkok a short time later as a military officer and fell in love with Thailand. After leaving the service, he decided to return and live here permanetly. The hand weaving of silk, a long-neglected cottage industry, captured Jim Thompson’s attention, and he devoted himself to reviving the craft. Highly gifted as a designer and textile colorist, he contributed substantially to the industy’s growth and to the worldwide recognition accorded to Thai silk. He gained further renown through the construction of this house combining six teak buildings, which represented the best in traditional Thai architecture. Most of the houses were at least two centuries old and were easily dismantled and brought to the present site, some from as far away as the old capital of Ayudhya. In his quest for authenticity, Jim Thompson adhered to the customs of the early builder in most respects. The houses were elevated a full story above the grounds, a practical Thai precaution to avoid flooding during the rainy season. The roof tiles were fired in Ayudhya employing a design common centuries ago but rarely used today. The red paint of the outside walls is a preservative often found on many old Thai buildings. The chandeliers were a concession to modern convenience, but even they belong to a past era, having come from 18th and 19th century Bangkok palaces. All the traditional religious rituals were followed during construction of the house, and on a spring day in 1959, decreed as being auspicious by astrologers, Jim Thompson moved in. The house and the art collection soon became such a point of interest that he decided to pen his home to the public with proceeds donated to Thai charities and to projects directed at the preservation of Thailand’s rich cultural heritage. On March 26th 1967, Jim Thompson disappeared while on a visit to the Cameron Highlands in Malaysia. Not a single valid clue has turned up in the ensuing years as to what might have happened to him. His famouse Thai house, however, remains as a lasting reminder of his creative ability and his deep love of Thailand.""

"The house of Jim Thompson - the American entrepreneur who revived the Thai silk industry. Nestled amidst lush tropical gardens in the heart of Bangkok, Jim Thompson's House offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and legacy of the renowned American entrepreneur and silk merchant. Once the home of Thompson himself, this meticulously restored teakwood villa showcases a remarkable collection of Southeast Asian art, antiques, and artifacts, alongside beautifully preserved architectural features and captivating anecdotes of Thompson's extraordinary life and his mysterious disappearing in Malaysia. The 40-minute guides tour will provide more information about the life and business of Jim Thompson and his mysterious disappearing in Malaysia. Next to the House is the eponymous shop, which showcase an exquisite collection of handcrafted silk products, ranging from sumptuous textiles and elegant apparel to exquisite home decor and accessories. Each piece bears the hallmark of Thompson's meticulous attention to detail and dedication to preserving the centuries-old traditions of Thai silk weaving. It houses a cafe and a restaurant that serve… (check info on the website) The Museum also offers a free shuttle to Jim Thompson’s flagship store on Surawongse Road, which is worth visiting. In addition to a wide collection of apparel and dining decor, this shop houses a beautiful collection of home decor on the 4th floor. Next to the Museum is the Jim Thompson’s Art, which is also worth a visit. "

"The Jim Thompson House is a must-visit for those interested in Thailand's history and art. This beautiful complex of traditional Thai teak houses belonged to Jim Thompson, an American entrepreneur who revitalized the Thai silk industry. The house is now a museum showcasing his art collection and the legacy he left behind. It’s a peaceful oasis in the heart of the bustling city, and the lush gardens surrounding the house are a tranquil escape from the chaos of Bangkok. There’s also a great café and a well-curated gift shop where you can purchase silk products. Pro Tip: The guided tour (included in the admission) is very informative and helps you understand the significance of Jim Thompson's contribution to Thai culture. Just know that since the house is open-space, it isn't air-conditioned. "