The restaurant, created by award-winning Japanese interior architect, Koichiro Ikebuchi, seats 112 diners and sits comfortably with the hotel’s contemporary aesthetic.

Established in 2004, Atelier Ikebuchi’s portfolio spans Asia-Pacific to Europe. His projects include Hotel Uma Ubud, Bali (2004), COMO Shambhala Estate, Bali (2005), Huize van Wely, Jakarta (2008) and Club 21 Men, Bangkok 2009. In 2009, Ikebuchi was named ‘Designer of the Year’ at the Presidents Design Awards, Singapore.

Ikebuchi’s design for nahm is both modern and elegant in conception with a warm, honeyed glow to the dominant palette. It is also loyal to local culture, with inspiration drawn from the grandeur of the Ayutthaya period. Between 1300 and 1700 centuries, this was the wealthiest kingdom in Thai history. Also known as the Golden Age of Thai arts and architectural ornaments, artisans were celebrated for their elaborately decorative works including wood carvings, weaving and murals.

The Thai references are subtle yet visually striking. These include the textured rusty-red (laterite) brick-stepped columns reminiscent of Ayutthaya temples, a gold-leaf featured wall, reclaimed Thai teak wood used for the flooring, hand-crafted wooden screens expressing a weave-like design and Thai silk in rich colours of rich earthy tones for the upholstery.

Throughout Ikebuchi has combined an emphasis on locally sourced, hand-crafted materials together with high-quality finishes.
With the layering of low-level screens, soft light is naturally diffused throughout the restaurant to create a cosy, intimate ambience for each dining space without compromising the buzz of this busy, popular address.

Every design detail has been attended to, including the tableware. The handpicked selection includes Benjarong bowls from Thai Artisan ‘Pinsuwan Benjarong’ and Celadon plates from local, Thai manufacturer ‘Mengrai Kilns’. The variety in shape, height, width and size of the tableware reflects the diversity of the textures and flavours of David Thompson’s cooking.
 
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