Almost a century before Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group was officially founded, this building has stood on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Since it was adopted into the chain’s fold, Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok has housed and inspired a host of beloved writers, such as Joseph Conrad, Somerset Maugham, Wilbur Smith and John Le Carre.

Built in 1867, the building has now seen a comprehensive revamp its historic Authors’ and Garden Wings, adding new facilities and restoring the property’s original grandeur. The project introduced new suites, including the Grand Royal Suite in the aptly named Authors’ Wing, as well as 12 suites with their own balconies in the Garden Wing.

The hotel company claims the six-bedroom, 600 square-metre Grand Royal Suite to be Bangkok’s grandest presidential suite and it’s not hard to see why. The accommodation occupies the entire first floor of the wing, which was actually the original Oriental Hotel. The suite has its own dedicated elevator access and incorporates the one-bedroom, 315 square-metre Royal Suite and the adjoining 165 square-metre Ambassador Suite with two bedrooms, as well as three further separate guest rooms for family and entourage.

Some of the new 80 square-metre Garden Suites offer a split-level layout but all feature floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the river and gardens. They each include a lounge, dining room, pantry, powder room and a balcony. The bedroom features a large marble bathroom with separate bathtub, a walk-in shower, double vanity and a walk-in closet – all styled in a contemporary why that’s said to complement the property’s colonial-inspired Thai heritage.

Foodies also have a cause to celebrate, with the upgrade of Le Normandie, the hotel’s French fine-dining restaurant. The new wine cellar features a bevy of both Old and New World vintages, and the customised dessert trolley is back, along with with striking new features such as handcrafted chandeliers. The Authors’ Lounge is also a great spot for afternoon tea – and maybe you’ll be inspired to do some writing while you’re there.

“We are delighted to unveil the results of this far-reaching renovation as we celebrate our 140th year of delivering legendary hospitality,” said Amanda Hyndman, general manager of Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok. “The Authors’ and Garden Wings are the heart and soul of this historic property, and this comprehensive renovation has extended Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok’s unique urban resort environment, allowing guests to enjoy the extensive river frontage to its fullest,” she added.