Tucked into a quiet leafy enclave down one of the tendril-like side streets of busy Sukhumvit Road, the two-parcel property had seen better days when acclaimed designer Bill Bensley bought it in the late ’90s. Embarking on a seemingly never-ending renovation that continues to this day, Bensley has coated the original two-story dwelling with a mixture of rice husk and plaster, replaced the vast majority of the existing vegetation and painted the interior walls in vibrant hues.
When it comes to his personal aesthetic, Bensley takes a “more is more” approach, earning him the title of “the king of exotic luxe” by industry peers. Indeed, a humorous warning is etched onto the French doors of the Bangkok home he shares with his husband, Jirachai Rengthong, a talented horticulturist: “Beware – you are entering the maximalist world of Baan Botanica.”
The revitalized dwelling is an ideal backdrop for pieces the couple have acquired during their far-flung travels. Think: Pakistani chests, Indian deities and Indonesian doors, along with sculptures, textiles and ceramics from every corner of Asia. In addition, there are dozens of remnants from Bensley’s many design projects. “We’re incurable collectors,” Bensley admits. “Baan Botanica is designed to be an unashamed cocktail of color, texture and different styles that sends the senses reeling.”
“Baan Botanica is designed to be an unashamed cocktail of color, texture and different styles that sends the senses reeling.”
While it’s fun to share their magical retreat, the couple especially enjoy relaxing there as a respite from their whirlwind schedules. “Madness has always been a driving factor,” Bensley notes, chuckling. “Both at work and at home.”
Photography by Michael Paul.
For more like Baan Botanica, be sure to check out the Milan home of an “eclectic maximalist” antiques dealer.
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