Beatniq, the new design-focused and retro looking condominium gracing the skies surrounding Sukhumvit 32 has a certain special air to it, and we’re not just talking about the extravagant and geometric facade of the building that makes for a one-of-a-kind architectural statement. They say a lot can be said about a name, and in the case of Beatniq, the name almost says it all. Deriving from the term ‘Beatnik’ – a person belonging to the beat generation of 1950-60’s America, this was a media stereotype for a person who developed a reputation as being a new-wave bohemian and hedonist, adhering to traits such as nonconformity and spontaneous creativity. Beatniq combines ‘beatnik’ with ‘unique’ and in essence asks its residents to stay unique, serving as a living space to cultivate those individual styles that make us dare to be different.
It all sounds a bit familiar, being in line with Bangkok’s most recent creative renaissance – as seen in everything from Thai music – let’s not forget the recent lyrical artists who were almost jailed for their ‘spontaneous creativity and nonconformity’ – fashion, art and film to comedy and forward-looking architecture. Bangkok has now become a home for new-wave hipsters and thinkers who either come from money or are capable of making it on their own. But do these Bangkok ‘beatniks’ have a home? Well, with the recent addition of Beatniq to Bangkok’s skyline, they just might.
Just to be clear, you don’t have to be outrageously courageous to live here. You could simply just have a love for contemporary retro art, design and creative expression or at the other end of spectrum, you could just enjoy being a part of a vibrant community that loves entertainment and a good party. Beatniq, the luxury condo set in the thriving community of Thong Lor – the less busy and quieter side of Sukhumvit 32 meaning that you have the best of both worlds – is an outstanding residential option for those looking to buy a new home. The Sukhumvit condo that took over the previous Rex Hotel property has given a new meaning to luxury, unifying 20th century architecture and contemporary art with a home-grown elegance and sophistication that speaks to the bohemians of Bangkok.
At first glance, the building is already a work of retro art. Inspired by the original architectural stylings of the mid-20th century era, any interested passersby will notice the building’s perfect shapes and angles, with a facade featuring an outstanding interplay of steel and glassware surfaces. The geometric cement not only provides shade and ventilation between each of the floors, but is used to create an organic sculptural form that is elevated in the spiral staircase between each of the levels.
Inside and within each of the units ranging from 1-3 bedrooms, Beatniq’s overall design serves as an interesting blend of mid-century modern stylings, with a look and feel that reflects a touch of nostalgia as one recalls the sentiment of a bygone era. Each of the units come with a spacious quality, featuring full-high windows that reach the ceiling and if you make it up to the penthouse, the ceilings go as high as 3.5 metres. Some of the more special or ‘extra’ rooms come with a semi-outdoor living space or balconies overlooking stunning vistas of Bangkok’s busy skyline. State-of-the-art dressing tables and walk-in closets are structured seamlessly in a layout that is designed to fully utilise the space, making dressing-up time – the most important part of any day – run nice and smoothly.
In terms of the luxury condominium’s other great facilities outside of its units, Beatniq has everything one could possible want and need, that perhaps would give them little room to ever want to leave. Upon entering, you’re greeted with the stunning lobby made of marble and geometric facades, which really set the tone for a perfect end to – or beginning of – any day. Life’s just prettier when there’s white marble involved.
Indulge in a bit of quiet time in The Reading Lounge, or host business or personal meetings in the Meeting Room, which also features an area outside, connecting the workings of your inner world with, exactly what you need, a good dose of nature, scientifically proven to reduce stress and engage the mind at optimum levels. Immersion in nature is central to life at Beatniq, which houses a full landscape garden complete with evergreen grass, flora, fauna and streams of water that ebb and flow along a creek. Next to the garden is also another dipping pool for children and adults to soak in, perfect for those who enjoy fresh oxygen between every lap and want to have a bit of time for themselves.
But if you’re in search of a more elevated swimming pool experience with sweeping views of Bangkok’s skyline, Beatniq’s got just the one for you on the 7th floor, featuring a floating pavilion; surrounded in white marble, this makes for breathtaking views, especially at night. Fitness is also central to life at Beatniq as the condominium also offers a fully-equipped gym, complete with a boxing area as well as a Kid’s Lounge for family activities.
Our favourite spot has to be the Landscape Sky Garden, not only a place housing the closest Bangkok will get to a floating evergreen forest, but also signature 20th century designs, such as the spiral staircase which connects the Penthouse residential area to the green area. Who said you needed to leave Bangkok, or your condo, to connect with nature? The 34th floor of the building also houses the Sky Lounge, which features an outdoor recreation area and semi-outdoor heated spa pool, perfect for winding down at the end of a long day.
Within walking distance of Thong Lor BTS and well-connected enough to Bangkok’s busiest roads, most notably Petchburi, Rama 9 and Sukhumvit, Beatniq is a prime location for those looking to buy a home. Close to Bangkok’s best malls and in the thick of Bangkok’s most trendy hangout area of Thong Lor, Beatniq will truly allow its residents to lead a unique life filled with spontaneous creativity and the elements of nonconformity that make for outstanding moments.
For more information please visit www.Beatniq32.com.
Catherine Napalai Faulder
Catherine is Bangkok born and bred and knows the angles of the city and its people very personally. You'll often catch her writing about the upsides of Thainess, the richness and diversity of Bangkok's third cultures and the true meaning of wellness.
