Handicrafts, textiles and contemporary interior design
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Sample of nearly all regionally produced handicrafts end up in Bangkok, and many of the shopping plazas have at least one classy handicraft outlet. Bangkok is also rapidly establishing a reputation for its contemporary interior design, fusing minimalist Western ideals with traditional Thai and other Asian craft elements. The best places to sample this, as detailed in the reviews below, are on Floor 4 of the Siam Discovery Centre and Floor 4 of the Siam Paragon shopping centre, both on Thanon Rama I, and Floor3 of the Gaysorn Plaza on Thanon Ploenchit.
The cheapest outlet for traditional northern and northeastern textiles – including sarongs, axe pillows and farmers’ shirts - is Chatuchak Weekend Market, where you’ll also be able to nose out some interesting handicrafts. Note for its thickness and sheen, Thai silk become internationally recognized only about fifty years ago after the efforts of American Jim Thompson. Much of it comes from the northeast, but you will find a good range of outlets in the capital. Price starts at about B500 per meter for two-ply silk (suitable for thin shirts and skirts), or B750 for four-ply (for suits).
