For travelers who value aesthetics and design, Bangkok offers some fabulous, stylish hotels that don't necessarily break the bank.

  • The Siam: If I could, I'd steal everything from the walls of this hotel. It's the epitome of good taste, a Bill Bensley-designed riverside hotel that blends Art Deco elements with modern comforts. From the impressive, plant-filled atrium to the spacious guest rooms furnished with antiques from owner Krissada Sukosol Clapp's personal collection, to the vintage boxing equipment in the hotel's own boxing studio, everything about this hotel is original, stylish, and desirable. A gift shop, stocked with more of Kris's treasured antiques, allows you to take a piece of Siam home with you (and not steal it! Please never do that). For more information, visit thesiamhotel.com
  • The Lit: This modern boutique hotel, perfectly located on a quiet side street just a short walk from MBK and the shops of Siam Square, is full of original surprises and provocative design elements. The guest rooms are anything but standard: they cleverly utilize unusual spatial relationships and constantly surprise with changing colored lighting and hidden niches. While there's a risk of it seeming a bit over-designed, it exudes an endearing humor and invites guests to be open-minded. Other unique features include a swimming pool accessible via a spiral staircase and whimsical sculptures on the steps of the outdoor bar. More information at litbangkok.com
  • Hotel Muse: The design of this M Gallery Collection hotel is inspired by the turn of the 20th century under Rama V, the golden age of travel when East and West collided. European touches, Asian opulence, a rooftop speakeasie-style bar, and a stunning black-and-white color scheme await you. The guest rooms exude pure luxury and offer the most comfortable beds I've ever seen—seriously! I didn't want to leave. hotelmusebangkok.com
  • Shanghai Mansion: I haven't yet stayed at this romantic boutique hotel in Chinatown, but it's definitely on my list – it looks absolutely stunning, an imaginative homage to old Shanghai with lanterns, rich reds, black lacquered walls, and sumptuous fabrics. The lobby alone, with its three-story, lantern-filled atrium and imposing staircase, is worth seeing, and every evening you can relax on the terrace to trendy jazz. Count me in! More info at shanghaimansion.com
  • Sofitel So: This urban oasis in the Sathorn Road business district unites the talents of five Thai designers associated with renowned French designer Christian Lacroix. The themed rooms are dedicated to the five elements of fire, water, earth, and metal—a nod to the nearby Lumpini Park. Each room features an Apple Mac Mini, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a complimentary minibar. Don't miss the stunning infinity pool and stylish outdoor bar. For more information, visit sofitel-so-bangkok.com

    • All images by Julie Miller.